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LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN; 



WITH A 



EEMINISOENOE, 



BY HIS SON 



CHARLES F. COFFIN 



EDITED BY HIS DAUGHTER. 



^MAKY C. JOHNSON 



PRINTED FOR HIS FAMILY ONLY 



E. MORGAN & SONS. 
1863. 



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INTRODUCTION 



It is proper to remark that the following memoir has "been committed 
to the press, in accordance with the wishes of Elijah Coffin's immedi- 
ate family, tja-at each one of its members might have in their own 
possession, the record penned by the hand of a tenderly, affectionate 
and beloved husband and father. 

There is but little of editoral matter inserted into the Journal, ex- 
cepting explanatory notes. The work of the compiler has chiefly been 
to arrange the material, and gather up such portions of information as 
furnish the interesting particulars of the life of the subject, and which 
in the minds of those who were the recipients of his tender sympathy 
and affection, can not fail to awaken pleasant recollections. 

The present volume begins with a sketch of the early life of Elijah 
Coffin written from his own recollections and included in the autobi- 
ography, which is followed by the extracts from his diary, and the whole 
are submitted precisely as he left them without abridgment. It would 
be a, great source of gratification to his survivors, had his memoranda 
began at an earlier date, giving a recital of the various incidents of his 
life throughout . the period of youth and early manhood, but in the 
examination of his journal and papers, it is found that he was not in 
the practice of keeping a daily record, previous to the fiftieth year of 
his age. 

It will be observed that but few extracts are introduced from his large 
private correspondence which he maintained many years with valued 
friends, both in England and America. It would undoubtedly prove both 
interesting and instructive, to have had selections from his letters in- 
serted in the following pages, but no copies having been preserved with 
his private papers, excepting those relative to business, or on important 
subjects, it was deemed best, in preparing the present volume, to omit 
to group together the widely scattered material, which might be obtained 
from numerous sources, as it probably would not present any new fea- 



IV INTRODUCTION. 

tares in his Christian character, and would swell the volume to a larger 
size than is intended. ^ 

The publications of Elijah Coffin, to which frequent allusion is made 
in the following pages, are before the public, and have met with much 
acceptance ; many testimonies having been already rendered to their 
value and usefulness. 

His memoranda are chiefly the events of the day, or recital of domes- 
tic incidents, portraying his domestic feelings, which, perhaps, possess 
but little of interest to others than his own family. They are occasionally 
interwoven by an expression of his sentiments on the various matters 
which came under his observation, together with the religious state of 
his mind; and as a whole give ample evidence of the purity of the life 
of one who lived in accordance with the Apostle Paul's injunction to 
the saints, "That they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing 
to communicate ; laying up in store for themselves a good foundation 
against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life." 

Cincinnati, Eleventh-month 1862. M. C. J. 



OOISTTEISTTS. 



CHAPTER I. 

Early Life — Revolutionary War — Visit to the West — Marriage — 
Removal to Indiana 9 

CHAPTER IT. 

Journal — Visits to Monthly Meetings — First- day Schools — Visit to 
.Baltimore — Cholera — Indiana Yearly Meeting , 23 

CHAPTER III. 

Visits to Schools and Meetings — Bible and Tract Societies — Indiana 
Yearly Meeting 56 

CHAPTER IV. 

State Constitution — Tract on Amusements — Visit to Eastern Cities — "*""" 
Bequest prom Josiah White 79 

CHAPTER V. 

Visits to Quarterly Meetings — Tract on the Marriage State — In- 
diana Yearly Meeting — American Bible Society — Visit to Yearly 
Meeting at Philadelphia — Yellow Fever in New Orleans — London 
Yearly Meeting Address on Slavery 94 

CHAPTER VI. 

Passage of Nebraska Bill — Journey to Eastern Cities — Yearly Meet- 
ing at Newport, R. I. — Return Home — Indiana Yearly Meeting — 
Visit to the West— N. C. Hoag and Wm. Hobbs — Prayer — Visit to 

North Carolina 117 

\ 
CHAPTER Vir. 

Return Home — Religious Exercises — Indiana Yearly Meeting — War in 
Kansas.... 142 



VI CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER VIII. 

Indiana Bible Association of Friends— New Year — Visit to Kansas — 
Western Yearly Meeting — Indiana Yearly Meeting 154 

CHAPTER IX. 

Reading Circles — Death of John Allen — Western and Indiana Yearly 
Meetings — Sabbath Schools — Visit to Washington and Eastern Cities 
— New York and New England Yearly Meetings — Journey to Iowa — 
Indiana Yearly Meeting — Visit to North Carolina Yearly Meeting... 172 

CHAPTER X. 

Visit to North Carolina, Continued — Mammoth Cave — Secession of South 
Carolina — Capture of Fort Sumpter — Visit to Kansas — Shawnee Mis- 
sion — Close of Journal — Memoranda — Visit to the Sea Shore — De- 
clining Health — Indiana Yearly Meeting — Sabbath School Confer- 
ence at Cincinnati — Conclusion 227 

CHAPTER XI. 
Last Days and Decease 264 

REMINISCENCES. 
By his son, Charles F. Coffin .........,...*... 28>5 



LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 



CHAPTER I. 

Early Life — Revolutionary War — Visit to the West — Marriage — Removal 

to Indiana. 

The following brief sketch of the birth, parentage and 
early life of Elijah Coffin, is taken from his Autobiography, 
written from his own recollections : 

It is an interesting exercise to recur to the scenes and actions of 
one's past life, and to those of individuals with whom we have been 
intimately connected, and who may have been instrumental for good 
or for evil, in directing the course of our conduct, and of forming 
and establishing our future character. Such a review is interesting, 
because we may see in our past conduct and conversation many 
things to condemn, and for which we sincerely repent, with a prayer 
that the best help may be afforded by the mercy and free grace of 
G-od through our Lord Jesus Christ, to reform and amend, to cease 
to do evil, and to learn to do well j also, that we may take courage 
from the peace and enjoyment which have flowed into our minds, 
and the blessings which, in various ways, may have attended us, 
from withstanding temptations, and performing the things required 
of us. 

From the experience of years, a good lesson of instruction may 
be drawn, which, if heeded, might be greatly valuable to the 
young. 

Moved by these considerations, the following sketch of my dear 
and honored parents, and of my early life, is penned. 

My father, Bethuel Coffin, son of William and Priscilla Coffin, 
was born on the island of Nantucket, on the 6th day of the Second- 
2 (9) 



10 LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. [1756- 

month, 1756. My mother's name was Hannah Dicks, daughter of 
Nathan and Mary Dicks, and she was born in the neighborhood of 
New Garden, in North Carolina, on the 16th day of the Sixth- 
month, 1757. 

My grandfather, William Coffin, was son of Samuel and Miriam 
Coffin ; and my grandmother Coffin's maiden name was Paddock. 
Samuel Coffin was son of John and Deborah Coffin, and married 
Miriam Gardner. John Coffin was son of Tristram Coffin, and 
married Deborah Austin. Tristram Coffin came to the island of 
Nantucket in the year 1660, from Salisbury, in Massachusetts. 

The island of Nantucket being small, and its soil not very pro- 
ductive, a large number of people could not be supported thereupon ; 
and to procure a livelihood a considerable proportion of the males 
went to sea, by which they became acquainted with a maritime life, 
and many of them brave, enterprising seamen. The whale fishery 
was pursued for the profits it afforded ; and the talents and enter- 
prise of the Nantucket men, enabled them to pursue it to advan- 
tage, insomuch that that branch of business was carried on more 
extensively, I believe, from that place, for a considerable time, than 
any other upon this continent. 

My father went to sea two voyages (the vessel being in pursuit 
of whales), when quite young; one of them into the Gulf of the 
St. Lawrence, and the other along the Labrador shore, and into 
Davis' Straits, as far north as latitude 62° 10'. I well remember 
to have heard him say that the sun was out of sight in the latter 
place ; in the summer, only about four hours in the twenty-four, 
viz. : from ten o'clock P. M. to two o'clock a. m., and that upon the 
deck of the ship, the twilight was sufficient to enable them to read 
at midnight. After these voyages, he served a while in an appren- 
ticeship to the business of boat-building. 

The population of the island still increasing, many of the citizens 
turned their attention to other parts, and were induced to remove 
and settle elsewhere, with a view to better their condition as to pro- 
viding for their children, etc. Awhile before the Revolutionary 
War, a considerable colony of Friends removed and settled at New 
Garden, in Guilford county, North Carolina, which was then a 
newly-settled country. My grandfather Coffin was one of the 
number that thus removed. His removal took place, I believe, in 
the year 1773. He had ten children, eight sons and two daughters ; 



1776.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 11 

but some of them being grown up and married did not remove at 
first, but afterward. My father was then about seventeen years 
old. 

My father's marriage took place on the 1st day of the Fifth- 
month, 1776, in the twenty-first year of his age, with Hannah 
Dicks, and they settled in the same neighborhood. 

The Revolutionary War was then in progress, and it was not long 
after this until the citizens of that part of the country felt, in 
various ways, the cruelty and horrors of such a conflict. The 
force and efficiency of the colonial laws, which had, of course, been 
sustained by the power of the British government, were weakened 
and abated, and rendered almost inoperative for the suppression and 
punishment of some sorts of crimes. The asperity and hatred 
which existed between two parties called Whigs and Tories, the 
first of which were the revolutionists, and the last the loyalists, to 
the British sovereign, may be named as two of the principal causes 
which gave latitude to many outrages and murders ; and the general 
unsettlement which existed in political affairs was taken advantage 
of by ruffians and robbers, who committed many depredations. 

When the armies came into the country, families also frequently 
suffered by the depredations of some of the soldiery. I remember 
to have heard my father relate the following incident: He and my 
mother were awakened one night by a knocking at the door, where- 
upon he, rising, opened the door, when two men, armed and in the 
habit of soldiers, entered. I believe father and mother had then 
their second child, and the youngest was in bed with them, and 
mother was a witness to what passed. Father invited the soldiers 
(for such they appeared to be) to the fire, and kindly offered them 
seats; at the same time opening the fire, and desiring them to 
warm themselves. Very soon he stepped out after more wood, 
which one of the men observing, followed him. My father had 
taken up the wood, and was about returning, when he observed the 
soldier after him. The soldier ordered him to stop, or he would 
" blow a ball through him," but my father went quietly forward 
without appearing to regard his command, and was suffered to enter 
into the house without the execution of the threat. He laid the 
wood upon Jthe fire, and treated the men kindly. After staying 
awhile, without seeming to be able to execute their designs, they 
departed without doing any mischief, but went to the house of a 



12 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1781. 

neighbor and committed robbery. I believe my dear father ever 
looked upon his preservation and protection from evil, as a kind 
interposition of Divine Providence in his favor. At another time, 
a soldier stole and carried off some of my mother's clothing, which 
she afterward recovered through the officers of his company. 

The battle of Guilford occurred in the Third-month, 1781, near 
Martinsville, which at that time and for a considerable time after- 
ward, was the county seat. The action was commenced between 
scouting or advance parties, about the Cross-Roads, a little to the 
north of New Garden meeting-house, about five miles west of Mar- 
tinsville, and several were killed and some wounded there. The 
main engagement was three or more miles eastward of this, and 
about one mile west of Martinsville. My father's residence was 
two or three miles from the battle-ground. The incessant cracking 
of the musketry and roar of the cannons, were therefore plainly 
heard by the family. It has been uniformly spoken of, as a day of 
great solemnity and awfulness. A hired man in my father's family 
was recognized by some soldiers as a deserter, and forced off into 
the army, and returned to my father's no more. During the pro- 
gress of the battle, a soldier came in great haste to my mother at 
the dwelling, having two of his fingers shot off and bleeding, which 
she kindly dressed for him as well as she could, and he then has- 
tened back to the conflict. My father went to the ground on the 
next morning, and was an eye-witness of the dreadful carnage of 
the day before, and rendered some assistance in burying the dead 
bodies which were lying upon the ground. A house near the 
Cross-Koads was made a hospital for the wounded, and New Garden 
meeting-house another. The neighbors went frequently and 
assisted in nursing the wounded, many of whom died of their 
wounds ; and those who died at the meeting-house were interred 
in the grave-yard there. I well remember a large grave, crosswise, 
in which it was said five were laid. 

After the battle of Guilford, the scenes of turmoil and war in 
that part gradually passed away, and quietness ensued; and the 
order of law was soon established and the independent government 
of the State, peace being concluded in 1783. 

My father and mother now had an increasing family. The fol- 
lowing are the names of my brothers and sisters, with the dates of 
their births annexed ; also the names of the persons they married ; 



1803.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 13 

Nathan, born Fifth-mo. 2, 1778, lived but a short time. 

Elisha, " Eleventh-mo. 27, 1779, married Maja M'Cuistion. 

Zacharias, " Fourth-mo. 5, 1782, " Phebe Starbuck. 

Paul, « Third-mo. 23, 1784, « Elizb. W. Moody. 

Kebekah, " Second-mo. 27, 1786, " Robert White. 

Hannah, " Fifth-mo. 15, 1788, " Thomas Symons. 

Mary, " Eleventh-mo. 18, 1792, " Micah Newby. 

Bethuel, " Eighth-mo. 20, 1795, died Seventh-mo. 2, 1799. 

Elijah, " Eleventh-mo. 17, 1798, married Naomi Hiatt. 

It had been my grandfather Coffin's prospect, that his youngest 
son, my uncle Abijah, should remain witb him upon the farm at 
New Garden, owned and occupied by the former, and minister to 
his wants in his declining years. But my uncle being taken away 
by death, arrangements were afterward made for my father and his 
family to remove to the premises, and occupy one part of the 
dwelling, which had been prepared for two families, and become the 
care-takers of my grandfather and grandmother in their old age. 
I can not tell in what year this removal took place, as it was before 
my remembrance ; yet, after I was born, so I conclude it might be 
about the year 1800. 

Farming had been my father's business, by which he had ob- 
tained a support for his family ; but in addition to this, which he 
still carried on, I remember that he entered upon two other enter- 
prises. One was merchandise, which he pursued for a few years, 
while he could have the use of some capital belonging to my grand- 
father, which was called in after the decease of the latter. Another 
was the building of a small grist-mill, on a little stream which 
passed through his farm, which was a convenience to the neigh- 
borhood for awhile, but not being profitable, was suffered to go 
down. 

My grandmother, Priscilla Coffin, died, I think, in 1803; and 
my grandfather, William Coffin, soon after, in the same year, or in 
the forepart of the next year. He was born in Nantucket, in 1720, 
and was about eighty-three years of age when he died. She was 
born in 1722, and was about eighty-one at her death. They 
were both valuable elders in the religious Society of Friends, and 
were highly esteemed and honored as useful and leading members 
m society and in the community. Being solid, religious^ venerable 



14 LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. [1810. 

persons, of good and weighty judgment, they were placed to occupy 
the head of the meeting at New Garden, for a considerable time, 
in the latter part of their lives. And having finished their course, 
they were gathered to their fathers in a good old age. 

As before mentioned, they had a large family of children, whose 
names are as follows, all born at Nantucket : 

Libni married Hephzebah Bunker. 

Deborah married Gardner, Micajah Terrell. First mar- 
riage at Nantucket, second in North Carolina. 

William married Esther Hunt, Elizabeth Vestal. Married in 
North Carolina, settled in New Garden. 

Samuel married Mary Duana, Mary Macy. Settled in North 
Carolina. 

Barnabas married Phebe Marshall. Settled in North Carolina. 

Matthew married Hannah Mendenhall, Hannah Macy. Settled in 
North Carolina. Both marriages there. 

Bethuel married Hannah Dicks, Catharine Macy. Settled in 
North Carolina. 

Levi married Prudence Williams. Settled in North Carolina. 

Abijah married Elizabeth Robinson. Neither lived long. 

Priscilla married Asa Hunt. Died soon after. 

My father was left in the sole occupancy of a large farm ? 
with his little stock of merchandise and a mill to manage. Bufe 
a division of my grandfather's effects among the heirs now became 
proper. He, therefore, brought his store to a close, and, after a 
few years, sold off a part of the land, including the ancient resi- 
dence and large orchard of apple trees; and, after a full adjust- 
ment was made, settled in a dwelling-house which had been built 
by my oldest brother, on another part of the land. To this he 
removed with his family, Seventh-month 25, 1810, in my twelfth 
year. I can well remember that at this time my mind was much 
interested in the affairs of the family. 

My grandfather's and my father's house had long been a place 
of resort and entertainment of many Friends who came to the 
neighborhood, either to attend religious meetings or as travelers 
for the promotion of the Truth. I think my oldest brothers and 
sisters well remember some interesting and instructive opportunities 
which occurred during such visits. 

I was in the practice of attending Friends' meetings at New 



1811.] LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. 15 

Garden, and my mind was frequently interested therein, particularly 
in the Yearly Meeting. I can remember how my heart was reached 
and affected, while quite a hoy, by the touching and powerful min- 
istry of Friends who published the gospel. My uncle Barnabas 
was clerk to the Yearly Meeting for a considerable time. 

In 1811, my sister Hannah was married to Thomas Symons, and 
they removed to Indiana to settle. My brother Paul was also 
married not far from this time ; my brothers Zacharias and Elisha 
and sister Rebecca had been married before; so that now there were 
none but my sister Mary and myself left at home with our parents. 

My dear parents were very kind and indulgent to me, and brought 
me up to industry and application to our business of farming, by 
which I was disciplined in mind to a diligent attention to lawful 
and proper business ; yet I was permitted to have a great deal of 
liberty in my associations with others ; and was frequently in com- 
pany which, at that age of vivacity and youthful activity, was 
hurtful to me, and the injurious effects of which were not soon 
eradicated. I well remember that after giving up to spend the 
afternoon of a First-day, in play and recreation with my cousins 
and others, a sad night of bitterness followed ; and yet such was 
my desire after such company, that I frequently fell into error of 
this kind, by giving way to the levity of my disposition, and to too 
much light conduct and conversation. 

I can well remember also that the company and conversation of 
many persons of mature age, with whom I frequently associated in 
the work of our farm, was far from being profitable or exemplary; 
so that my mind was employed on subjects of an injurious ten- 
dency. I have now to be thankful to the great and good Preserver 
that I was kept out of any great sin, or from the commission of 
any crime very disreputable or scandalous ; and although I re- 
member, with sorrow and shame, many froward and perverse 
things in my behavior, yet I was considered, by some who knew 
me, as a pretty good boy. My dear father did much to instruct 
me as to obedience to the Spirit of Divine Grace upon my mind as 
my rule and guide, and was well pleased with my ready advance- 
ment in learning, when opportunity offered for me to go to school. 
But our schools were then far short of being what they are at 
present, in regard to the facilities and qualifications of teachers, etc. ; 



16 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1816. 

and as my services were much needed at home, my opportunities of 
school were limited. 

The turn of my father's mind was decidedly pious; and I believe 
it afforded much pleasure to him, and to my dear mother, who was 
a very orderly woman, to witness what was pious and orderly in 
their children. Their attendance of religious meetings was very 
regular, and we were encouraged to go also. I believe they both 
desired to encourage us, by precept and example, in the ways of 
righteousness. My father was upright and honorable in his deal- 
ing; careful to comply with his contracts; to give good weight and 
measure ; and not to involve himself in business beyond his ability 
to manage. He took an active part in the proceedings of our re- 
ligious society, and appeared to be much interested in the company 
and society of religious persons. 

From the year 1811 to 1814 or '15, our country was at war with 
England, many incidents of which I well remember ; particularly 
do I remember the general public rejoicing which took place when 
peace was made. 

In 1816, our friend Jeremiah Hubbard was employed as teacher, 
to occupy a school-house which had been newly built at New 
Garden. I had become acquainted with him, having attended his 
school at Deep River a few weeks previously to his coming to New 
Garden ; and now I was employed, for a short time, as assistant 
teacher in his school. 

During this service, I was seized with a violent sickness, which, 
for awhile, threatened to terminate my life. After a protracted 
season of excruciating suffering at one time, caused by the disease 
and medicines, I lost all consciousness of my being. I remember 
to have awakened, as it were, from this condition, finding my 
father and mother gently bathing my extremities with vinegar, 
which refreshed me ; and I shall never forget the kind and tender 
softness with which they administered the soothing hand, all in 
silence. My feelings of mind were extraordinary. I felt as inno- 
cent and sweet as a child, and happy as a person free from every 
impurity and every uneasiness. These sweet feelings were entirely 
free from any excitement ; and whether they were allowed me on 
account of my real condition, or whether they were graciously 
afforded to give me a foretaste of that Happy condition in which 
those find themselves who stand in perfect acceptance in the Divine 



1818.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 17 

sight, I am not now about to say. But it seems to me yet, on 
•thinking of it, that my feeling of peace and innocency was com- 
plete. I had no more pain or bodily suffering on account of that 
sickness, but gradually recovered usual health. My heart is tender. 
and the tear starts in my eye now, as that happy scene is brought 
before me. 

This year may be noted as about the time when the first ac- 
quaintance and intimacy between me and Naomi Hiatt, the daughter 
of Benajah and Elizabeth Hiatt, first took rise; and that intimacy 
of feeling was never broken off, but continued until our marriage, 
in 1820." 

.- I was employed, I think, in the fall of 1817, to teach a school, 
which was my first effort in that business. The school was lively, 
and quite large enough as to numbers, and appeared to give satis- 
faction. 

In the spring of 1818, I undertook a school at New Garden for 
three months, which was prosecuted until near the close of the 
time, when, having an opportunity of the company of my friend 
Samuel Nixon, I set off with him on a journey to the western 
country, with the approbation of my father, having in view my 
own improvement and the prospect in future of emigration. We 
traveled together, passing through the western part of North 
Carolina and a part of Virginia, across the mountains, through 
Tennessee, Kentucky, into Indiana, crossing the Ohio at New 
Albany. We stopped a few days among relations and acquaint- 
ances near Salem, and I then proceeded to Whitewater alone, and 
Samuel Nixon came on soon afterward. 

I spent a few weeks with my brother and sister Syrnons, who 
resided near where Milford meeting-house now is, during which 
time various visiting and exploring excursions were made, which 
were interesting to me. One. not the least so, was a trip through 
the native wild woods, on our horses, about forty miles to the 
northwest, during which we fell in with the native Indians, and 
staid the night with an Indian woman in her hut, in a village of 
Delawares, on "White Kiver. We were out several days, and en- 
joyed good health. My friend Samuel Nixon and I remained 
together, and returned through the State of Ohio, by the way of 
Chillicothe and G-allipolis, where we crossed the Ohio Biver; thence 
up the Kanawha, by the salt works, and so on, up New Biver, until 



18 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1820. 

we fell into the same road upon the mountains upon which we had 
gone out. 1 was absent from home about three months, and re- 
turned in improved health, greatly interested with the journey. 
After which I again engaged in teaching school at New Garden. 

On the 2d day of the Second-month, 1820, I was joined in mar- 
riage. This engagement was felt by us to be truly a solemn one ; 
and I may believe was entered into with solemn and prayerful 
feelings by both of us. After many years of experience, thought 
and observation, I am fully persuaded that marriage is a divine 
ordinance ; a state designed for man in the creation by the Creator 
himself, and, therefore, when rightly entered into, will contribute 
greatly to his comfort and happiness in this present life ; a state in 
which the parties, by obedience to duty, will be enabled to fulfill 
more perfectly the designs of their creation. 

We settled upon a farm near New Garden meeting-house ; and I 
carried on the business of the farm, in a small way, and was at 
times also engaged in a school. 

My dear and honored mother departed this life on the 10th day 
of the Tenth-month, 1820. 

In the First-month, 1821, our first child was born. Below is a 
statement of our children: 

Miriam Allinson, born First-month 9, 1821. 
Charles Fisher, born Fourth-month 3, 1823. 
William Hiatt, born Ninth-month 26, 1825. 
Eliphalet, born Eighth-month 25, 1828; died Fifth-month 5, 
1831. 

Caroline Elizabeth, born Sixth-month 20, 1831. 
Mary, born Seventh-month 15, 1834. 
Hannah Amelia, born First-month 16, 1838. 
In the fall of 1822., I was appointed clerk of the Yearly Meeting 
of Friends in North Carolina, and my friend Zimri Stuart was ap- 
pointed assistant. On looking back, it now excites my wonder 
that two persons so young, and, as to myself, so much wanting in 
religious experience, should have been put into a station of so much 
importance. We were both ready writers, and quick and active 
minded, and I may believe well intended for good ; and I also be- 
lieve and have no doubt that we were helped and blessed by the 
Head of the Church, unworthy and inexperienced as I was, to do 
the service to a good degree of satisfaction to Friends. 



1822.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 19 

I can now remember, with feelings of shame and sorrow, some 
instances of giving way to light conduct, inconsistent with my pro- 
fession, and with the stations which I was called upon to fill, and 
unbecoming to that gravity, sobriety and weight which do belong 
to the true Christian character. It is probable that my weakness 
in that respect, was not extensively known among Friends ; and that 
some who did know something of it, were disposed to exercise much 
charity of feeling toward me. 

I have ever esteemed highly Christian cheerfulness, and a pleas- 
ant friendly course of conduct among those with whom we associate ; 
and this is the more to be valued, as being the effect of true Chris- 
tian love in our hearts toward our fellow-men. But at an early 
age, upon serious reflection, I was sensible of going too far in giv- 
ing way to lightness in conduct and words, and had some concern 
to improve in this respect. The following verses were composed 
upon arriving at my twentieth year of age, Eleventh-mo. 17, 1818. 

In looking back, 1 see that I 

Have been remiss in many ways, 
I pray that I may hence apply 

My heart more to virtue's sway. 

The jovial scenes of fleeting things, 

Light as the air, and vainer yet, 
Have carried hours upon their wings, 

And days whose loss I now regret. 

Through all the wanderings of my youth, 

My mind has been to walk the way, 
To fear the Lord, and love the Truth, 

And not with willful heart to stray. 

My Saviour's love has followed through 

And shown me, by his Spirit true, 
Compassion for my sins and faults, 

And drawn my mind his grace to view. 

The following are some reflections written in the forty- 
fourth year of his age, upon a review of the foregoing 

verses : 

1. I wish to commemorate God's mercy, through Jesus Christ, 
in the gift of his Son, for man's salvation; for there is no other 



20 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1823. 

name given under heaven, by which we can be saved; and through 
him, salvation is opened to all. 

2. I wish to commemorate the gift of the Holy Spirit, by which 
I am convinced of sin. His adorable mercy in giving frequent 
evidence of pardon for transgressions, by the presence of His good 
Spirit in peace. 

3. I wish to note my thanks for the enjoyment of the prospect 
and works of the Creation, in being admitted as a spectator; one 
of the means of introducing our souls into the consideration of the 
omnipotence, infinite wisdom, and glory of the Creator. 

4. For the gift of general health; and of a sound, though deli- 
cate, constitution of body. 

5. For the blessings of food and clothing, which He has been 
pleased to give me, in sufficient quantity. 

6. For the blessing and enjoyment of a companion — a much-loved 
and faithful wife. 

7. For the blessing and enjoyment of children. 

8. For the blessing of a competence to make us comfortable to- 
gether. For all these, how can I be sufficiently thankful? 

9. For the enjoyment of religious society, and of peace ; and a 
good degree of confidence in civil society. 

10. May the blessings aforenamed be continued, and others 
granted as may be fit. 

The continuance of the favor and presence of God's Holy Spirit, 
particularly His reproofs for transgression and errors. Also a sense 
of approbation of what is pleasing. " Take not thy Holy Spirit 
from me." 

Blessings spiritual and temporal to each one of our family. 

11. May I be enabled to improve the talents given me in a way 
pleasing to the Giver. 

12. May the decline and close of my life be peaceful. 

13. And may I reach and enjoy Heaven, when my existence here 
shall be closed. 

Richmond, Fifth-month, 1843. 



In the Fifth-month, 1823, I set off as companion to Jeremiah 
Hubbard, upon his religious visit through several of the northern 
and eastern States. We attended the Yearly Meeting in Virginia, 



1833.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 21 

and then went forward through Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York 
and New England to Newport and New Bedford. Thence to Nan- 
tucket; thence to Falmouth, Boston, Lynn and Salem. Return- 
ing, we came to Providence, thence to Hartford, Connecticut; thence 
to Nine Partners, New York; thence via Fishkill, Newburg and 
Quakertown to Philadelphia. Here I left Jeremiah, and returned 
home in time for our Yearly Meeting; and he attended the Yearly 
Meeting in Baltimore. In the next spring, I went with him through 
the eastern parts of North Carolina and Virginia to complete his 
prospect. These journeys were of great interest to me. 

My father's second marriage took place in the year 1822 with 
Catharine Macy. 

After my return from the first of the journeys aforenamed, we 
settled temporarily at Hopewell ; expecting to remove and settle in 
the western country; and I was engaged in a school at Hope- 
well. 

My wife's father, Benajah Hiatt, having also determined to re- 
move with his family, we set off together, leaving our native State 
in the Eighth-month, 1824. We were favored to reach the neigh- 
borhood of Milford, Indiana, in about four weeks, in which we set- 
tled ; and I took up a school in the village of Milton. 

My father also removed with his family in the year 1825. 

I was appointed clerk of Indiana Yearly Meeting in 1827. 
About this time there was much difficulty in the Society, which 
resulted in a separation. In the year 1828, Thomas Shillitoe attended. 

In the year 1829, I engaged in merchandise at Milton, in the 
retail way, in which business I continued at that place about four 
years. 

Having propositions from Griffin & Luckey, wholesale merchants 
in Cincinnati, I engaged in their store in 1833, and removed to that 
city with my family in the Seventh-month, having brought my store 
in Milton to a close. In the year 1832, in the spring, I went to 
Philadelphia and New York to buy goods, bearing Charles Osborn 
company as far as New York, as he was proceeding upon his relig- 
ious visit to Europe. I did well with the goods, but felt uncom- 
fortable under the debt which I was obliged to contract, in order to 
procure such amount as my business appeared to call for. This 
uncomfortable feeling at lying under debt, was probably one prin- 
cipal reason of my relinquishing the retail business, and taking a 



22 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [18S3 

station as clerk in the store of Griffin & Luckey, as above-stated. 
In the last-named station, I was enabled to live easy as to debt. I 
remained with them about a year and a half, during which time, 
with my previous experience in merchandise, I was enabled to ac- 
quire a fair knowledge of business and commerce. At the setting 
up of the Branch of the State Bank of Indiana, in 1834, I was 
chosen cashier at Richmond, and removed to that place with my 
family in the Eleventh-month. My dear sister, Rebekah White, 
departed this life during our residence at Cincinnati. 

In the station of cashier, as aforesaid, I remained a considerable 
number of years ; being now still engaged therein. 

My dear father made us several visits at Richmond after we set- 
tled there ; and we also visited him, at his home on Blue River. 
His decease took place in 1837, and he was buried in a grave-yard 
near G-reensborough, in Henry county, Indiana. 

Having proceeded thus far in giving some account of my grand- 
father's family ; of my father's family ; and of the events and ex- 
ercises of my early life, I may now suspend that part of the narra- 
tive and proceed with my notes. 



1848.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 23 



CHAPTER II. 

Visits to Monthly Meetings — First-day Schools — Visit to Baltimore — 
Cholera — Indiana Yearly Meeting. 

Eleventh-month 17 ', 1848. — lam this day fifty years of age ; I 
find my outward engagements rather too pressing upon me to be 
quite agreeable ; but I ought to acknowledge many favors, many 
ways, and to endeavor to be grateful for them. How could I desire 
to improve, in a spiritual sense, every succeeding day that I live ! 

18th. — A very busy day in my office. I frequently fear that I shall 
be too much occupied with outward things for my spiritual good. 
Had some feeling of good, beyond what I thought myself worthy, 
more particularly toward the close of the day, and in the evening. 

19th. — First-day. — A deep feeling rested upon my mind last night, 
in view of the great change which is hastening to end my earthly 
pilgrimage, with something like a fear that I am not well prepared for 
it. My prayers have been for a better preparation j and for some- 
thing of a soul-satisfying evidence of it, before my final departure. 

Letters from Waynesville last evening informed us that dear 
Khoda is somewhat more comfortable ; we feel very much for her 
and dear Charles — he is now at home with us. Meeting to-day ; 
considerable solemnity. 

In the perusal of Elijah Coffin's Diary, the memory of 
the flowing sympathy which his affectionate heart cherished 
toward each member of his family, will be revived in nu- 
merous instances. 

The preceding memorandum refers to an illness of 
many months' duration, of the wife of his son, Charles, who, 
during the winter of 1848, was with her mother at Waynes- 
ville, Ohio, under medical treatment. 

21st. — Meeting of the school committee at "Whitewater school. 
Some of the Quarterly Meeting's branch committee in attendance, 



24 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1848. 

About seventy scholars ; in good order. Occasion of some in 
terest. 

22d. — Monthly Meeting — much business, and held late. Sev- 
eral of the Whitewater branch committee on education present. 

Eleventh-month 23-25. — Busy days. Dear Charles absent — gone 
to Waynesville. I have several times had to regret making 
some expression which might, in some degree, wound the feel- 
ings of another — I could much desire afterward I had not said 
it. Some feeling of good has attended me ; a favor for which I 
desire to be thankful. 

26th. — First-day. — Our beloved friends Enos Gr. Pray and com- 
panion, in one company, and Sarah M. Hiatt and Deborah Pening- 
ton, and their companion, in another, attended. ' Enos is going to 
Whitelick and Spiceland, and Sarah is returning home. They 
were all three engaged in the ministry — a memorable time, it seems 
to me ; in which we have renewed evidence that the Divine favor 
has not left us, unworthy as we are. 

29th. — Fourth-clay. — Our dear Charles being absent at Waynes- 
ville, I have been much engaged in my office for these last three 
days. Some disturbing occurrences, and a want of a more strict 
guard over myself on some occasions, have disturbed, in some 
measure, the harmony of this day. Our school at Whitewater is 
very large — the behavior of the scholars in meeting, in a general 
way, good — some exception was noticed to-day, and the public men- 
tion of it, it seemed to me, was not for the best. The evening read- 
ing in our family is kept up, to edification, I believe. My dear wife 
has been reading to us, David Sands' Journal, which is entertaining 
and instructive. I have just finished Jonathan Hutchinson's Let- 
ters (a very instructive book), and am now engaged in reading to 
myself, the Life of William Allen. 

Twelfth-month 1, 1848. — Sixth-day. — Our Quarterly Meeting of 
Ministers and Elders. The day being inclement, the meeting was 
small ; but not, it -seemed to me, destitute of some feeling of good. 
Very little business. Our dear Charles still being absent. I thought 
it best after meeting, to return to our office, for the relief of A. C. 
Blanchard, who so kindly officiated for me, so I was not present at 
the African committee or Bible auxiliary association, in both of 
which I have a lively interest. 

2d. — Quarterly Meeting. Not so large, as at some times, but 



1848.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 25 

pretty quiet, and not so much business as we frequently have. Our 
dear friend Daniel Williams engaged in lively testimony, before 
business was opened. After the Yearly Meeting minutes had been 
gone through, a concern was opened for the removal of deficiencies 
among us ; and after consideration, the meeting came to the con- 
clusion to appoint a committee to visit the Monthly Meetings (a 
measure which was proposed upon the opening of the concern). 
Daniel "Williams, myself, Jacob Elliott, Mordecai Hiatt, Joel Gil- 
bert, Charles H. Moore, Margaret White, my dear wife, Abigail 
Morris, Leah Weesner, and Rebecca Clawson were appointed. 

The meeting closed under a good deal of solemnity. In the even- 
ing received a letter from our dear Charles ; the news is sad ; dear 
Rhoda is not considered better. Hope for her recovery begins to 
grow dim. 

3d. — First-day. — Meeting not very large; but a good deal so- 
lemn. Much communication from D. W. and J. H. 

6th. — Our dear Charles came home this morning. He reports 
dear Rhoda to be much in the same situation as awhile past, and 
fears to hope that she is permanently better. Our business en- 
gages us now very closely. A good Providence blesses me with 
more strength than I could well have expected, and with good 
health. May I consider the favor gratefully. 

9th. — Seventh-day. — My dear wife and I left home early, accom- 
panied by Abijah Moffitt, to attend Westgrove Monthly Meeting, 
held at. Fairfield, with the committee of the Quarterly Meeting. — 
The roads are so muddy, and the weather so much unsettled, that I 
was much depressed with the prospect of endeavoring to get off; 
added to this, was a sense of my unworthiness and weakness and 
errors. But we were favored to get along well as to the outward, 
so as to arrive in good time. The meeting was not large ; all the 
committee were present, except Abigail Morris. During the pro- 
gress of the business, I was induced to speak to matters before the 
meeting, in which I afterward felt satisfaction. At the close of 
the business, the partition was opened, and the Yearly Meeting's 
minute on the state of Society was read. Some close and search- 
ing labor followed. I was induced once to speak so plain, that I 
was afraid after sitting down, but was fully seconded by dear Mar- 
garet White, and afterward, on a review, felt peace and satisfaction 
in this and other labors of the committee, and a hope that the 



26 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1848. 

members of that meeting may be stirred up to more lively devo- 
tion, and greater diligence in spiritual things. It was very rainy 
in the afternoon, and our little company went after meeting to our 
kind friend Jonathan Baldwin's, where we staid during the night. 

10th. — Setoff early homeward ; but coming to Noland's Fork, 
it was so swollen by the abundant rain of the preceding day, that 
we could not safely undertake to cross the stream ; and after con- 
siderable consultation we turned about and proceeded toward West- 
grove meeting, which we attended. My dear wife had some good 
service, I believe. We dined at Mark Elliott's; and in the after- 
noon visited the widow Elizabeth Cook and her family, and staid 
the night at Dillon Haworth's, at whose house we were very hospi- 
tably entertained. We had an interesting interview with the dear 
and interesting family at Scripture reading in the evening. After 
some time in silence, I addressed, first the young people and chil- 
dren in a simple way, and then the parents ; and had much peace 
on going to bed, under the feeling which attended. 

11th. — We were very kindly conducted across the stream early 
in the morning, by our friend Dillon, and were favored to arrive 
safely at home about ten o'clock. On reviewing the proceedings 
of the two past days, feelings of peace and satisfaction, and a de- 
gree of thankfulness attended. I think I can say, I am glad we 
were there. 

13th. — Our dear friend John Pool is very sick. 

15th. — Our friend aforesaid continuing very sick, has requested 
an interview with the Ministers and Elders of our meeting, at his 
bed side. He seems to have no prospect of recovery. A very 
solemn interview was accordingly held — a time, I believe, not soon 
to be forgotten. I felt drawn to engage in vocal prayer ; and our 
hearts were much tendered together. 

Set off about two o'clock P. m., my dear wife and William Ken- 
worthy in company, toward Hopewell, to attend their Monthly 
Meeting to-morrow. We reached Margaret Morris' about ten in 
the evening, having had considerable difficulty in getting along the 
last of the way, on account of the darkness of the evening — but 
were very kindly received, and felt comforted. 

16th. Early on the road to Hopewell — our friend Daniel Wil- 
liams and wife in company — we reached meeting in season, and 
had a solemn meeting, particularly toward the close. The commit- 



1848.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. X? 

tee were mostly present, and their labors were, as I believe, search- 
ing and stirring, and, so far as I can judge, well received. Called 
in the evening and, staid the night at our friend Jacob Elliott's — 
several other Friends also being there — much to our satisfaction. 

17th. — First-day. — Attended Westgrove meeting; dined at our 
friend John Maxwell's, very agreeably, and reached home in the 
evening. A feeling of thankfulness, 1 believe, attended us, upon 
thinking of the favors we had had, finding our dear family well, 
etc. John Pool considered no better; and Elizabeth, his wife, 
very ill. 

18th. — Our dear Charles set off for Waynesville about noon. 
From the last accounts it would appear that his dear wife has not 
improved much, if any. 

Something like murmuring at cross or unpleasant circumstances 
has, at times, I believe, been an injury to me. 

Twelfth-month 19-23. — I have been closely engaged in my office 
this week. Called of evenings to see John and Elizabeth Pool — 
except the last two — prevented by indisposition. John better; 
Elizabeth's recovery is looked upon as doubtful. I attended meet- 
ing on Fourth-day, as usual. Arrangement was made for my dear 
wife to go to Milford Monthly Meeting, but failed : the streams 
high, and the roads very bad. 

I have been blessed with some feeling of good at many times 
during the past days. Our usual Scripture portion is read every 
morning — I have enjoyed it, the few days past. 

24th — First-day. — Very inclement. My indisposition continu- 
ing, though better, it is thought best for me to remain about the 
house to-day. Copied the certificates of our dear friend Thomas 
Arnett on parchment, preparatory for going to Europe on his relig- 
ious visit. Some of my time spent in prayer and reading, alone. 

25th. — Elizabeth Pool died this morning at about two o'clock. 
My dear wife was sent for in the evening, and was present at the 
closing scene. John is better. This is set down as the birth-day 
of our blessed Saviour. May I often think, with feelings of the deep- 
est gratitude, of what has been done for me, and for all mankind, 
in the great love and mercy of Grod, through Jesus Christ our 
blessed and only Saviour. The remembrance of his goodness is 
very frequently the subject of my thoughts. It is by the good gift 
and influence -of the Holy Spirit that I am made sensible of the 



28 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1848. 

Lord's goodness and mercy ; what an inducement then, to pray 
earnestly for it, for I remember the promise that he will give to 
those that ask him. 

26th. — The burial of Elizabeth Pool took place this afternoon — 
leaving the house at one o'clock. After the interment, a meeting 
was held, and considerable spoken in the ministry, by B. F. and 
J. H. 

27th. — Monthly Meeting. Had much business, as usual. George 
W. Fisher received as a member. The Yearly Meeting's business 
reached us, and was disposed of in a satisfactory manner, but the 
reading of the minute on the state of Society was postponed until 
next meeting, when it is expected the Quarterly Meeting's commit- 
tee will be here. The London General Epistle was read, and is, 
as usual, very instructive and edifying. I remember, particularly, 
that part which proposes to us the solemn queries, whether we have 
experienced repentance and regeneration, producing that change of 
heart necessary to our sanctification ; a preparation required in or- 
der to the blessed enjoyment of heaven, and that part, though of a 
more outward nature, which upholds the Christian principle of the 
ultimate full settlement and payment of just debts, as ability to do 
so may be afforded, although, through failure, they may have been 
long delayed, and perhaps a legal release had. 

We hear that other members of the committee failed to reach 
Milford Monthly Meeting on account of high waters, etc.; we are, 
therefore, to look, I think, toward attending that meeting next 
month ; and, it has been already concluded, to endeavor to attend 
Springfield, Whitewater and Chester in next month. 

Twelfth-month 28-30. — Busy in my office. I acknowledge that 
I have been favored this week to experience a good deal of the 
feeling of good, which has greatly contributed to my comfort and 
enjoyment. Dear Charles is still absent. We hear rather more 
favorable accounts of dear Rhoda's condition. 

31st. — Meeting. A beautiful day. The winter, thus far, has 
been very mild for this climate ; scarcely any very cold weather. 
As the year draws to its close, many considerations arise. How 
much have I improved in a religious sense during the year? How 
much more are my will and my passions subdued, and how much 
more am I devoted in heart to do my Heavenly Father's will con- 
cerning me ? I do, indeed, hope there is some improvement, not- 



1848.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 29 

withstanding my many short-comings and errors. that humil- 
ity, and the love of God may more and more possess my soul ! 

Many important things have occurred during the past year. The 
war of our government with Mexico has been brought to an end, a 
circumstance of sincere rejoicing to many Christian hearts. The 
treaty of peace gives us a vast addition of territory to our hereto- 
fore widely extended country. May it be for the best. There is 
to be an effort made to prevent slavery from existing in the newly- 
acquired territory ; and the friends of that measure seem now to 
have a majority in the House of Representatives in Congress. I 
ardently hope they may succeed. 

Within the last few months, it has been discovered, or come to 
be known, that large quantities of gold may be found on the Sac- 
ramento River, and in that region, about one hundred and fifty miles 
from San Francisco, in California. The knowledge of the fact has 
just become general; and much is now being said about it in this 
country. I hear that many adventurers from different parts are 
going, and preparing to go, in search of the precious metal, and 
the gains expected from its discovery. The mines are said to be 
rich. 

A circumstance which has deeply interested our feelings this year 
is the marriage of our dear daughter, Caroline Elizabeth, to Wil- 
liam H. Ladd, on the 24th of the Eighth-month, and her removal 
to Ohio soon afterward. We believe that the dear young people 
desired to be rightly directed in this momentous engagement, and 
they entered into it in a very solemn and satisfactory manner. 

It was truly affecting to us to part with our dear child from our 
little family circle, and to lose her much valued company and truly 
affectionate intercourse. But believing that marriage is a divine 
institution, and honorable in all, when rightly entered into, it is 
rather to be encouraged than opposed ; we therefore gave up our 
dear child, and our tender wishes went with her and her beloved 
husband, for their best welfare, present and future. 

It appears from accounts recently received that that awful scourge, 
the cholera, is undoubtedly upon the continent again; a few cases 
have occurred at New York ; we hear quoted an alarming report 
from New Orleans; and it is pretty well given up, at least by many, 
that a case, or a few cases, have occurred at Cincinnati. 



30 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1849. 

First-month 1, 1849. — Very busy in my office, though with doors, 
closed ; our dear Charles being yet absent. 

3d. — Meeting. Marriage of Dennis Kendall with Rebecca Jane 
Hill. They appear to be very young to enter into this solemn en- 
gagement, but have proceeded with full consent. May the Divine 
blessing attend them. I had, at their particular desire, prepared 
the certificate — Levi Jessup read it. B. C. Hobbs spoke at our 
last Preparative Meeting; and the second time, to-day, in the way 
of the ministry. 

4-6th. — Exceedingly engaged in my office; dear Charles be- 
ing still absent. The good presence of the Lord has been with 
me many times this week, affording me some sweet enjoyment; yet 
I have been so much pressed with outward business, as to feel 
rather chafed by it, for the best. I ought to be greatly thankful 
for my excellent health through so much labor ; I have been very 
weary of evenings, but the blessing of good rest at night has re- 
freshed me, and renewed my strength and energy. My valued 
friend, A. C. Blanchard, has rendered me essential assistance in my 
office, during the absence of our dear son. Accounts received from 
Waynesville rather gloomy concerning dear Rhoda. Had interest- 
ing and truly cordial letters from our dear children, Miriam and 
Caroline, this week. It is very pleasant to hear that the former, 
and her dear family, are well. And from the latter, that her dear 
husband and herself have just got agreeably settled, to themselves, 
in their own new house. 

7th. — First-day. — We were gladdened this morning by the re- 
turn home of our dear Charles — though he reports the condition of 
his dear wife to be much as it has been, without any certain im- 
provement. 

Meeting. Favored in some degree with the feeling of Divine 
love. After dinner, went to the boarding-school, and had an af- 
fectionate interview with the teachers, Lewis and Huldah A. Estes. 
Dear Lewis is, I fully believe, religiously engaged; I hear he some- 
times speaks in the religious meetings at the school. May the 
dear man be preserved and strengthened in the right way. 

Supped at table with the scholars — about forty -three in number — 
their conduct very good. 

10th. — Meeting. Committee on the increase, etc., of our library 
at Whitewater. Staid part of the afternoon in the school* whicfe 



1849.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 31 

appears to be in very good order, under the administration of Wil- 
liam Haughton, as principal, and James W. Marmon, as assistant 
teacher. The scholars making good progress, I should think, in 
their studies. 

13th. — Accounts from New Orleans represent that the cholera is 
abating there. It appears to have been most severe from about the 
24th to the close of last month. About ninety are reported to have 
died on the worst days. By the last telegraphic reports, the num- 
ber of deaths daily has decreased to fifty or under. Several cases 
have occurred at Cincinnati ; but it does not seem to rage there yet 
as an epidemic. 

In reviewing the past week, I am sensible of some errors, which 
have given, and do give me, pain; yet favors have attended me, for 
which I desire to have a grateful heart. My prayer is, that I may 
improve, and with the help of Divine grace, make greater advance- 
ment in the subjugation of myself, and in bearing as I ought to do 
my infirmities. 

11th. — A silent meeting. I believe the feeling of good, and a 
good deal of solemnity attended. 

First-month 15. — Jared Patterson came into town, on his way to 
perform a visit to some of our eastern quarterlies : Anna Thornburgh 
and companions also in company. Jared desired to have a meeting 
in town for the citizens; so, after some consultation, it was agreed to 
apply for the use of the Methodist meeting-house, which was done, 
and the house obtained, and notice of the meeting circulated to be 
held at six o'clock this evening. While we were at dinner, our 
dear sister, Anna Unthank, came in, together with her son Morde- 
cai, and his wife, Eliza Jane (recently married). We are glad to 
see our relatives. 

16th. — The meeting was held last evening, and, though not very 
large, was in a good degree satisfactory. Jared and Anna both 
spoke in the ministry, and a part of the time, it seemed to me the 
gospel triumphed over the assembly, in which there was much so- 
lemnity. The meeting parted very seriously, and I think in much 
good feeling. Our relations staid with us last night, and left us to- 
day to go to James Cockayne's. I have felt great sympathy for 
the dear young pair, who are newly setting out for themselves ; and 
some serious remarks to them on some important subjects, appeared 
to be well received. 



32 LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. [1849. 

Visited Whitewater school in the afternoon with the committee, 
and was interested. The committee adopted a report to the 
Monthly Meeting. 

17th — Preparative Meeting. Finished a letter to Josiah Foster. 

20th. — Springfield Monthly Meeting, which I and my dear wife 
attended, with others of the committee. We had solid icy roads, 
and went from our home in the morning. The meeting was small; 
yet some feeling of good was experienced in a portion of the time. 

21st. — Set off early from our cousin Barnabas Coffin's, at whose 
house we had been kindly entertained; got our carriage tongue broke, 
by the fall of one of our horses upon the road, and yet were favored 
to reach Dover meeting seasonably — which was small. We dined at 
our friend Walter Robert's, and before parting had an interesting 
interview with the family of young people, his daughters and the 
husband of one of them. Reached home in the evening, peace- 
fully. 

23d. — Acting committee at the boarding-school. Had an inter- 
esting interview with the scholars in the afternoon. I addressed 
them, much to my satisfaction and peace. 

24th. — Monthly Meeting. All but one of the committee present. 
Our dear friend Benjamin Fulghum opened a concern to visit West 
Branch and New Garden Quarterly Meetings, and some subordinate 
meetings, and to appoint a meeting at Newport, which was freely 
and fully united with, and he encouraged to attend to it. Our 
friend John Pool offered to go with him, and was united with. 
The committee had some searching and, I hope, useful service 
toward the close. Many interesting matters were before the meet- 
ing to-day. 

25th. — High water. I was much hurried with different concerns 
and under discouragement this morning; but got off, low in mind, 
to Chester Monthly Meeting; my dear wife with me. The meeting 
was small, and was very low in mind during the forepart of it. 
The committee had some excellent and appropriate service, and the 
meeting closed under a sense of Divine favor. 

First-month 26. — Arose very low and depressed. The waters are 
high, and to-morrow is Milford Monthly Meeting, which we have 
agreed *to endeavor to attend. Set forward in the afternoon with 
other friends, but were stopped at Greensfork, it being considered 



1849.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 33 

too high for our carriage. Found a comfortable entertainment at 
Thomas Marlat's, near by. 

27th. — Crossed the creek, and went forward to meeting. Part 
of our committee did not get along. Some of us had affecting and 
deeply important labor, which seemed to be well received ; and the 
meeting closed under a sense of favor, and we were induced to be- 
lieve that it was best for us to be there. After a short visit to our 
dear aged mother, we went to our friend Charles H. Moore's, and 
staid the night. He has lately appeared in the ministry, and my 
heart is much united with him. 

28th. — First-day. — We set off early, and reached our own dear 
home just in time to get to our own meeting. There is cause for 
gratitude to the Father of mercies and the Glod of all comfort, on 
looking back at the exercises, the labors and favors of the past 
week. This work of visiting the Monthly Meetings has been truly 
a weighty service; but we have been helped in it, and there is 
good reason to believe that the labors may and will be useful to 
many. 

Our dear Charles set off very soon after dinner to Waynesville ; 
the accounts received from his dear wife are not favorable; we feel 
exceedingly with them, and so does a large circle of their friends 
and acquaintances. 

30th. — Harvey Derbyshire and wife, Susanna, arrived here this 
afternoon ; Jesse Hoover and Rebecca, his wife, with them, from 
West Branch. All staid at our house. 

31st. — Fourth-day. — At meeting to-day, after sitting some time 
in silence, Harvey spoke. It seemed to me that the good Spirit 
was with him. He is to go to Orange to-morrow; Smyrna, next 
day; and Chester on Seventh-day. 

Second-month 2, 1849. — This is the day on which my dear wife 
and I were united in marriage, at New Garden, in North Carolina, 
in the year 1820, now twenty-nine years ago. This was a move- 
ment so deeply interesting to both of us, and so momentous in its 
consequences as connected with our happiness in this present life, 
that it comes into my mind very frequently at other times in the 
year, when the date is brought into view. I have ever regarded 
our matrimonial connection as one of Divine ordering ; have ever 
esteemed marriage as honorable in all, when rightly entered into; 
and many have been my grateful feelings that a good Providence 



34 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1849. 

brought us together. I have ever looked upon the gift to me to 
be one of those precious blessings for which I ought ever to be 
thankful. 

The day passed away in a good degree of comfort, and the 
evening was spent, in part, as part of many others lately have been, 
in hearing my dear Naomi read in the Memoirs of Maria Fox. It 
seems to me that some of the experience related in that journal, 
which was read this evening, is exactly my own. 

4th. — My dear wife and I went to the boarding-school to-day 
(First-day). We were at part of the morning reading in the boys' 
room; at the Meeting for Worship at eleven o'clock; and at the 
Scripture reading and recitations at two o'clock. I was placed at 
the head of the meeting, and felt the responsibility of such a situa- 
tion. Bear Lewis A. Estes appeared in supplication, and my dear 
Naomi afterward spoke. Dined with the family. Returned home 
about four o'clock P. m., and in the evening we read together, as 
usual ; my dear wife read a portion in the Memoirs of Maria Fox, 
a truly instructive book; and I read a portion in the Life of 
William Allen, in which I am also much interested. 

Accounts from Waynesville sad. • Our dear Hhoda does not 
appear to mend as yet. 

I look back, with feelings of quietness and some satisfaction, to 
our visit at Milford Monthly Meeting. I was much tendered, and 
broken into profuse weeping; and after the partition was opened, 
I addressed the meeting on the awful subject of the general day of 
account. I felt it to be an awful subject, particularly for me, to 
speak upon. I was deeply affected, and the meeting appeared very 
serious. May the exercises be useful to me, particularly, as well 
as others. 

6th. — Our dear Charles came in unexpectedly to-day, and brings 
us a better account from his dear afflicted wife, which we are all 
truly glad to hear. 

9th. — Finished a letter to John Allen, of England. I remember 
this dear friend with great affection. 

10th. — Wrote to Eli Jones and Sybil, his wife, at*South China, 
Maine. These beloved Friends attended our Yearly Meeting, and 
made their home at our house, in 1845. I first became acquainted 
with them at the Yearly Meeting in Ohio, that year. 

This week has been rather a quiet week. Our office business 



1849.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 35 

has not pressed us so closely as at some other times before now; 
and I ought to be grateful for the feeling of good which has 
attended us. 

13th. — School committee, and at school at Whitewater in the 
afternoon. Matters appear to be going on pretty agreeably. 
William Haughton, principal, and James W. Marmon, assistant, 
teachers. 

14th. — Meeting. Conference of Elders after meeting. There 
has been much uneasiness about too much speaking in our meet- 
ings ; and the party has now been fully admonished, and I am 
thankful that it has been done, through Divine favor, in a spirit not 
to hurt, I believe. 

Second-tnonth 15. — Cold, two degrees below zero, this morning. 
We have not noticed it to be lower than about five degrees above 
before, this winter. The winter has, upon the whole, been rather 
mild. We hear good account of our dear Rhoda at Waynesville, 
and of our dear Miriam at Cincinnati, who has also been much in- 
disposed. It is cause of rejoicing and gratefulness that they are 
better. 

16th. — Mercury one degree below zero this morning. Some of 
the remarks of Eliphaz, in the fourth and fifth chapters of the Book 
of Job, which we read this morning, seem to me remarkable. May 
I not take instruction from the third, fourth and fifth verses of the 
fourth chapter? A large part of the fifth chapter is sublime. 

18th. — First-day. — Harvey Derbyshire and wife attended our 
meeting. Since being here before, they have been at most of the 
meetings in Chester and Springfield Monthly Meetings, and in 
New Garden Quarterly. Harvey gave us an affecting account of 
his religious experience, and spoke otherwise appropriately for our 
benefit. What a blessing it is, from the good Hand, that we are 
still visited with the message of the gospel. His mercy and good- 
ness herein should increase our zeal for his name, and our weak 
desires after greater dedication to become fully his servants. 

Dear Charles set off, soon after dinner, to Waynesville. 

19th. — Cold. Mercury five degrees below zero at half past seven 
o'clock. 

21st, — Fourth-day. — Preparative Meeting. Select Preparative 
Meeting. Harvey Derbyshire in attendance. In the select Pre- 
parative Meeting, I felt most easy to propose that our beloved 



36 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1849. 

friend W. K. be appointed to the station of an Elder, which was 
united with by nearly every one present; and his name is for- 
warded. 

24th. — Received a sad telegraphic message, announcing to us 
the decease of James Parnell Rambo, aged about fifteen months, 
youngest son of our dear children, Wm. A. and Miriam A. Rambo, 
near Cincinnati. His funeral is to be on the 25th. We feel deeply 
for the affliction of our dear children, in the loss of this interest- 
ing little boy. But the dear child, though precious to his dear 
parents and to us, is taken away by a good and wise Providence, in 
whom we ought to have full confidence, from a world of many 
temptations and tribulations, in a state of innocency, to be an in- 
habitant of that glorious world where temptation, sin, sorrow and 
misery are unknown ; ought we not, then, rather to rejoice in that 
he is mercifully delivered from many evils to come? 

25th. — First-day. — Some excellent testimony in the early part of 
the meeting to-day; but a very painful season toward the close. 
Our friend H. D. present. Wrote to our dear children at Cincin- 
nati. Favorable accounts from our dear children at Waynesville, 
for which we ought to be grateful. 

Second-month 27. — Dear Charles came home to-day; his precious 
wife not quite so well. 

28th. — Monthly Meeting. I thought it right to expose to the 
meeting that I felt some impressions of religious concern to visit, 
in the love of the Truth, for their help and encouragement in a 
Christian life, some young families, members of the meeting, and 
some single young persons. Friends very generally united with 
the concern, and encouraged me, which was humbling ; and my 
dearly loved friends, Benjamin Fulghum and Levi Jessup, each 
expressed an engagement to unite with me in the service, which 
was also united with, and was cordial to me, and minutes were 
made out expressive of our case, desiring us to report. 

My dear wife afterward came in, and opened a concern to visit, 
in gospel love, the families of Friends belonging to Whitewater 
and Milford Monthly Meetings, which was fully united with, and a 
minute made, so expressing it. 

Third-month 2 and 3. — Quarterly Meeting, which I and my dear 
wife attended. Roads exceedingly bad. Meeting small, but some 



1849.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 37 

favor attended. TVe reached the meeting at the boarding-school, 
upon our return, First-day morning, 4th. 

10th. — I and my dear friends aforenamed have, during the past 
week, visited several families, in prosecution of our concern. Though 
at times in the feeling of much weakness, yet we must acknowledge 
that we have been helped. May we be favored to keep low, and to 
do what we do in the simplicity of an honest and faithful heart. 
AVe have been very kindly received in nearly all cases, so far. 

17th. — Closely engaged this week in my office. Charles gone to 
Waynesville. 

24th. — Visited this week several young families and young per- 
sons, in prosecution of our concern. My dear wife went toward 
Milford yesterday. To-day their Monthly Meeting is held, in 
which her concern is to be opened. 

25th. — Started soon after breakfast to Smyrna; Benjamin and 
Levi with me. Meeting sat at half past nine o'clock; was small, 
but some favor attended. In the afternoon, we had some service 
in our visit, and returned home in the evening, in feelings of vac- 
knowledgment for the favors which had been with us. Met my 
dear wife at home, she having reached our meeting this morning. 
Milford Monthly Meeting united with her concern, and appointed 
a committee to assist her. Dear Margaret TYhije has been looked 
to as having a like concern, and as disposed to join my dear wife 
in the service; but she (M. TV.) is sick, and at present unable, but 
she sent her concern to join in visiting the families of Milford to 
that Monthly Meeting, which was united with. 

Third-month 26. — Attended further to our service with the 
young people. 

27th. — Acting committee of boarding-school, which I attended. 
Things went on pretty well. Twenty-three boys and seven girls in 
school. Mary (rough has just taken her place as teacher of the 
girls. B. C. and R. T. Hobbs have been continued superintendents 
for the present session, just commenoed. 

28th. — -Monthly Meeting. TVe made our report concerning our 
visit to the young people. In the men's meeting much satisfaction 
was expressed, and some in the women's. A committee on First- 
day schools was appointed. My dear wife commenced her labors 
this afternoon ; William Kenworthy and Grulielnia Henley are her 
companions. 



38 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1849. 

In reviewing our visit to the young people, I feel a substantial 
satisfaction. I believe we were favored to attend to our concern in'a 
good degree of simplicity ; for this we ought to be humbly grateful. 
I think we have been made sensible that of ourselves we could do 
nothing which could be serviceable in promoting the great and good 
cause of Truth ; for all right movements in this cause, we must be 
favored with Divine ability. We visited about fifteen families of 
young persons, and from fifteen to twenty individuals beside ; and 
distributed several copies of the Scriptures. As the service has 
been humbling, may it result in the permanent improvement of our 
own hearts, and increase our willingness to surrender ourselves 
more fully to obedience to our Heavenly Creator; and to faithful- 
ness in small intimations of duty even in small things, which we 
have been much engaged to recommend to others. 

Felt very low in the evening. 

Committee on the library at Whitewater met. Grot along well. 

29th. — My dear wife out upon her concern. I am much depressed 
in spirit. 

Fourth-month 1, 1849. — First-day. — Our committee on First-day 
schools stopped together after the rise of our meeting. A pretty 
good feeling appeared to prevail. Agreed to open the school at 
Whitewater two w^eks from to-day. Selected teachers, etc. 

5th. — My dear wife still absent on her visit. We were made sad 
this afternoon by a telegraphic message from Waynesville, that dear 
Charles' dear boy is very ill. Charles set off about four o'clock p. 
M., on horseback. 

9th. — We hear more favorable accounts from our dear children at 
Waynesville. My dear wife came in this morning from Smyrna ; 
she has now nearly completed all her visits to the families of our 
Monthly Meeting. Rebecca Clawson has been her companion to 
the families at Smyrna. 

11th. — Fourth-day. — My dear wife and friend, Wm. Kenworthy, 
set off about three o'clock p. m., for Milford, expecting to visit the 
families of Friends of that Monthly Meeting. They expect to be 
joined by our dear friend, Margaret White. Received a telegraphic 
message from Dayton, that our dear children, Charles and Rhoda, 
little Elijah, and Phebe Johnson, are on their way from Waynes- 
ville homeward. We rejoice to know that she is able for the 
journey. 



1849.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 



39 



12th. — About four o'clock P. M., the company alluded to above, 
arrived in safety. Dear Rhoda seems quite as well as we could ex- 
pect. We are truly glad to see them ; a feeling of thankfulness 
has run through my heart, that they are favored to return to us 
once more ; and a ray of hope that dear Rhoda may yet recover. 

14th. — My dear wife returned from Milford, unexpectedly, Mar- 
garet White's health not being sufficient to the prosecution of the 
concern at this time, though they have visited several families. 

Fourth-month 15. — First-day. — Opened our First-day Scripture 
school, to pretty good satisfaction. About thirty present. 

20th. — I and my wife set off together to Cincinnati, in the omni- 
bus; I, on business; she, to visit our children there. Arrived 
safely in the evening. She went to W. A. R's next morning, and I 
about my business. 

21st. — Much engaged in business. Went to W. A. R's in the 
afternoon. 

24th. — Returned home. Found all well. We ought to be 
thankful for the favors that have attended us. 

27th. — Funeral of Jonathan Homey. Meeting afterward. 
28th. — My dear wife, accompanied by William Kenworthy and 
Rebecca Clawson, set off for Milford Monthly Meeting early. She 
has a prospect of going through her visit with this company. The 
health of dear Margaret still continuing unsuitable to the service. 

Fifth-month 5. — Seventh-day. — My dear wife and her company 
returned this evening from their visit. She appears well, and we 
were very glad to see them. 

Fifth-month 12. — Busily engaged in my office during the past 
week. Went to the boarding-school yesterday afternoon- — about 
fifty scholars — appear to be orderly and doing well. Mary Gough 
is now engaged as teacher in the girls' department. 

Spring appears now to^be fairly opened. The meadows and pas- 
tures are very beautiful, and the trees are mostly out. " The time 
of, the singing of birds has come." The farmers have mostly 
planted their corn. Although we had a sharp frost awhile 'past, 
yet there is a prospect of considerable fruit. Our pleasant yard at 
home frequently makes me think of Paradise. Surely we are 
blessed as to outward things. May we be thoughtful and grateful. 
We hear of considerable cholera in Cincinnati. 
A large number of persons has gone forward to California, 



40 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1849. 

attracted by the prospect of large gain, on account of the discovery 
of the gold mines. 

Fifth-month 25. — Since the last date I have been busily engaged 
in my office, and in various other concerns. Some of the time 
feeble in body, and much depressed in spirit. On the 22d attended 
the acting committee of the boarding-school. It seemed best to 
employ Huldah Estes, to take the place of teacher again, in the 
girls' department. On the 23d, was our Monthly Meeting, a day 
of deep interest. There is a spirit of difficulty and opposition 
among us which made open appearance to-day. But I believed that 
truth triumphed ; the honor and the praise to Glod only, be ascribed. 
Our dear friend, William Kenworthy, was appointed to the station 
of Elder. 

27th. — First-day. — Our First-day Scripture school goes on well; 
we had over forty to-day. 

30th. — The committee on the division of the Yearly Meeting 
met to-day. After considerable discussion, the committee came to 
the conclusion to report that no way opens to move in the case at 
present. 

31st. — Meeting; for Sufferings. 

Sixth-month 1. — Meeting for Sufferings. General boarding- 
school committee. Select Quarterly Meeting. We have several 
valuable Friends here with us, with minutes — Thomas Wells, 
William Pearson, Thomas Jay. I thought myself not well able to 
attend the African committee, and Bible association in the 
afternoon. 

2d. — Education committee at nine o'clock A. M. Quarterly Meet- 
ing. A very large meeting ; many valuable Friends from other 
quarters with us. 

3d. — First-day. — School at nine o'clock, meeting at eleven o'clock. 
Thomas Wells had an appointed Youth's Meeting, at four o'clock 
p. m., which William Pearson and Thomas Jay attended. 

Seven hundred and ten copies of Evans' Exposition sent out to 
my care, have been sold to agents in various parts of our Yearly 
Meeting, within the last few days. 

Sixth-month 10. — Engaged in my ordinary occupations during 
the past week. There is a good deal of cholera in Cincinnati. We 
are blessed with pretty good health at home, but we hear of afflic- 



1849.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 41 

tion in the family of our dear children, W. A. and M. A. R., near 
that city. 

17th. — First-day. — H. D. has returned. We had a painful 
meeting. 

26th. — Having been appointed by our last Yearly Meeting one of 
a committee to meet in conference with like committees of other 
Yearly Meetings at Baltimore, on Second-day, the 9th of Seventh- 
month 1849, the subject has been weightily upon my mind for a 
considerable time. The fearful prevalence of the cholera at Cin- 
cinnati, the prospect that it may soon be here, my own feebleness 
of body, the stripped condition in which we must leave our dear 
girls, Mary and Hannah, the burdens that must come upon my dear 
Charles, in consequence of my absence, and, perhaps, many other 
causes, appear to discourage me; besides, I have very little, if any, 
sense of any advantage to Society, which can result from my attend- 
ance. I must, however, leave that, and after fully considering and 
reconsidering, I think I shall feel most in my duty, and most easy, 
to give up to set off; and endeavor to be resigned as to the result. 
My dear wife concludes to accompany me as far as William H. 
Ladd's, near Richmond, Ohio ; and our valued young friend, Jesse 
J. Kenworthy, also kindly concludes to bear us company. 

So our little party parted affectionately from our dear relatives 
and friends at home, and about ten o'clock A. M., set forward in our 
own carriage, feeling low and tender, but peaceful. Staid near 
Dayton, the first night. The cholera is prevailing considerably at 
Dayton. 

27th. — Dined at Springfield, and wrote home. Reached Lafay- 
ette in the evening. 

28th. — To Columbus to dinner. We visited the State prison, and 
were deeply interested. Went forward after dinner to Luray. 

29th.— To New Concord. 

30th. — Through Guernsey county, to near Cadiz. 

Seventh-month 1. — First-day. — Passed Cadiz in the morning, and 
reached Smithfield meeting. To Benjamin W. Ladd's to dinner ; 
we found him very ill. To Wm. H. Ladd's in the afternoon ; 
found our dear children well, and we were rejoiced to meet them. 

4th. — Parted from my dear wife and children, and proceeded in our 
carriage, Robert Talbot kindly going in company with J. J. K. and 
me, on my way to Baltimore. Passed Steubenville and crossed the 
4 



42 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1849. 

Ohio at Wellsburgh ; thence to Washington, Pa. We have trav- 
eled through an interesting country to-day. The narrow part of 
Virginia through which we passed, is- about six miles wide ; we 
dined about the middle of the day, at an agreeable place. There 
is a fine view of Washington and vicinity from the cupola of the 
court-house, into which we went. The town appears to stand in a 
kind of basin, the hills appearing to be higher than the street nearly 
all around. 

5th. — In the morning we went forward about nineteen miles, to 
Jonathan Knight's, at whose house we were very kindly received. 
After dinner, Robert Talbot returned homeward with our carriage 
and horses, and J. K. and son (J. K , jr.) politely took us in a 
carriage to Jesse Kenworthy's, passing, in our way, Westland 
meeting-house. We were kindly received at J. K's, and after stay- 
ing two hours or more, and taking supper, Jesse kindly went and 
took us in his carriage to Brownsville, to Dr. Stanley's, where we 
staid together. 

6th. — Early in the morning we took the coach for Cumberland, 
passing an interesting country twelve miles to Uniontown; thence 
about four miles to the beginning of the ascent up the mountains. 
We had a most interesting prospect to the west as we ascended. 
The ascent up Laurel Hill, the first ridge, is said to be three miles 
We dined in the valley of the Youghiogheny, and did not reach 
Cumberland until about twelve o'clock midnight, having been eight- 
een hours crossing the entire mountains. Very tired. 

7th. — Arose refreshed, and after breakfast went to the railroad cars 
at eight o'clock A. m., and were carried thence, railroad speed, 
toward Baltimore. We took a hasty dinner at Harper's Ferry, a 
place of much interest, if time had permitted us to examine, and 
arrived at Baltimore about five o'clock p. M., one hundred and 
seventy-five miles, and were kindly received and taken home by our 
dear friend, Hugh Balderston, at whose house I made my home 
during my stay in the city. 

Seventh-month 8. — First-day. — Last evening and this morning I 
have met with most of the dear Friends who are in attendance here 
from the several Yearly Meetings on committees of conference. 

Meeting at ten o'clock A. M. An interesting meeting. Our 
friend Richard Mott of New York spoke at considerable length in 



1849.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 43 

the ministry, to the purpose, I believe ; beginning with the text : 
" And the Lord shut him in." — Gen. vii, 16. 

Meeting at four o'clock p. m. Went to Dorothy Hopkins' to tea. 
Present, our dear friends, Richard Mott, John Meader and his wife 
Elizabeth, and others. 

9th. — Second-day. — This day, at ten o'clock A. M., our several 
committees of conference met together at Friends' meeting-house, 
in Baltimore. The meeting was very solemn, and I believe all the 
members felt low and humble, greatly desiring preservation and 
right direction. Richard Mott offered prayer. After a suitable 
time of silence, business was proposed. I was appointed clerk for 
the day, and the meeting was fairly opened by reading the several 
minutes of appointment, and calling the names. 

The following Friends were present: From New York — Richard 
Mott, Thomas Willis, Henry Rowntree, Richard Carpenter, Wil- 
liam F. Mott, Samuel F. Mott, James Brown and James Congdon 
(three of their committee not here). From New England — Row- 
land Greene, John Osborne, John D. Lang, Stephen A. Chase, 
David Buffum, Samuel Boyd Tobey, John Meader, Samuel Taylor, 
jr., and Samuel Boyce. From Indiana — George Carter, Elijah 
Coffin, Thomas Evans, Eleazar Bales and Henry Wilson (four of 
our committee not here). From Baltimore — Hugh Baiderston, 
P Richard H. Thomas, Samuel Worthington, Joseph King, jr., Na- 
thaniel C. Crenshaw, Jonah Sands, William A^Thomas, John Scott, 
Isaac Brooks and Joel Cook {J. C. did not arrive until next morn- 
ing). From North [Carolina — Aaron Stalker, Thomas Kennedy, 
James Peelle, Richard Mendenhall, Nereus Mendenhall and Joshua 
Stanley. Our dear friends, Benjamin Seebohm and Robert Lind- 
say, from England, being in the city, and having come here under 
religious concern to attend the conference, and the subject being 
made known, it was agreed that they should be admitted. After 
some discussion, and the appointment of a committee to propose a 
slerk, the conference adjourned until four o'clock p. M. 

At the meeting in the afternoon, our dear friends aforenamed, 
attended, and their company is expected hereafter. I was appointed 
clerk. After considerable discussion, on various interesting subjects, 
a committee was appointed to take them more fully into consideration, 
and the conference adjourned until ten o'clock to-morrow morning. 

10th.— A report was received this morning, which brought the 



44 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1849. 

state of Society plainly to view. After much communication, a 
committee was appointed to prepare a document to be submitted 
with our report to the Yearly Meetings, respectively, which ap- 
pointed us. 

11th. — Much engaged in preparing the document. 

12th. — In the afternoon to-day, the document was adopted; also 
a form of report, with entire unanimity. 

Jesse Kenworthy went to Washington on Third-day, and came 
back in the evening, much gratified with the visit. To-day he left 
for Philadelphia, intending to go thence via New York and Albany 
to Buffalo, thence by lake to Cleveland, and thence by coach to 
meet me at Eichmond, Ohio. 

After the rise of the conference, which closed in great solem- 
nity, and much brotherly affection of the members toward one an- 
other, we parted, and several Friends set off homeward by the even- 
ing trains. 

13th. — Sixth-day.— -Took an affectionate leave of my dear friends 
of Hugh Balderston's family — he kindly went with me to the cars 
for Cumberland ; and after I had paid my passage, and taken my 
seat, I was made glad by the appearance of my friends, George 
Carter, Thomas Evans, Eleazar Bales and Henry Wilson, who had 
been thinking of returning via New York, but had finally decided 
to take the same route with myself, across the mountains. The cars 
moved forward at about a quarter past seven o'clock A. M. We took 
some refreshment, hastily, at Harper's Ferry, and arrived at Cum- 
berland about five o'clock p. m. Here we took the coaches, and 
were favored to get well across the mountains to Uniontown by 
about seven o'clock next morning. We made no stops except for 
refreshments and changes, until we arrived at Wheeling, a little 
before eight o'clock p. m. in the evening of the 14th. 

Seventh-month 15. — First-day. — I am much refreshed this morn- 
ing by the rest which I got last night. George and Thomas went 
forward, before ten last evening, in the coaches. After breakfast, 
Eleazar and Henry and I retired awhile in my room, and read to- 
gether from the Psalms. About ten o'clock A. M. they went aboard 
a boat for Cincinnati, and I was left alone. I wrote home to my dear 
children, and spent the afternoon in a feeling of much loneliness. 

16th. — Left Wheeling, at eight this morning, in a small boat for 
Steubenville, at which place we arrived between two and three o'clock 



1849.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 45 

P. M., and I hired a carriage to take me to William H. Ladd's. I was, 
indeed, truly rejoiced to meet my beloved wife, and our dear Wil- 
liam and Caroline, well ; and felt that I have cause of gratefulness to 
the good Giver of all good things, that I have been enabled to per- 
form this journey so far, with so much comfort, and in the enjoy- 
ment of so many blessings. We have received accounts from our 
dear children at home, uniformly giving us favorable intelligence 
of their getting along well in our absence. The cholera continues 
truly awful at Cincinnati; Dayton has also suffered much; and I 
understand from Charles that in the little town of Boston, it has 
been very severe. Several cases have occurred in Richmond ; so 
we may conclude it is now fairly there. 

17th. — This afternoon we went to our beloved friend Benjamin 
W. Ladd's. He has been very ill for some time past, but we were 
glad to find him better, though he is not able to set up much yet. 

18th. — We attended Smithfield meeting to-day. The meeting 
was not large. In the afternoon we went to Doctor William S. 
Bates', where we had an agreeable visit. After supper we called at 
William Price's for a short time. 

19th. — Returned and attended Cross-creek meeting. It was 
Preparative Meeting both at Smithfield and this place. 

20th. — At Henry Crew's, in Richmond, to supper. 21st. — At 
James D. Ladd's to supper. We were very glad to see our dear 
young friend Jesse J. Kenworthy come in during the evening to 
join us. He reports that he has had a prosperous and agreeable 
journey, and seems well pleased. 

22d. — First-day. — Attended Cross-creek meeting for the last time. 
After dining with our dear children, we set out for Cadiz. We feel 
anxious about home, on account of the sickness around. Staid the 
night at Cadiz. 

23d. — Reached the National road, at Cambridge, and went on five 
miles west. 24th. — To Hebron. 25th. — Reached Columbus about 
two P. M. Over one hundred prisoners have died of cholera, since 
we visited the State prison. We stopped only at the post-office, 
at which we received a letter from our dear Charles, giving us a good 
account of our own dear family, but there is much sickness in town 
of cholera. 

26th. — Staid at Lafayette last night. Stopped for dinner at Jer- 
emiah Warder's, near Springfield; thence to a tavern near Dayton. 



46 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1849. 

27th. — In the morning, heard at Dayton of the illness of our dear 
Charles at home. 

We were favored to. reach home this evening, greatly rejoiced to 
meet our dear children and friends again, and thankful for the 
many favors which have attended us in our late journey. 

Our dear Charles is confined; and dear Hannah is not well; hut 
neither is dangerous, we believe. 

The sickness here is truly awful; yet the cases of death are few, 
in proportion to the number sick. 

28th. — My dear sister Hannah Symons was taken very ill last 
eight. Her case may be considered critical. 

To-day, Doctor James W. Marmon was seized with cholera at 
eight or nine A. M., and died about four P. M. 

There are now so many sick that the physicians appear to be 
almost worn out with attention. 

29th. — First-day. — Funeral of James W. Marmon at ten this 
morning. Meeting. 

Eighth-month 4, 1849. — The'cholera is considered to be sensibly 
abating; yet, there are many cases of sickness. It has greatly 
abated in Cincinnati. 

5th. — First-day. — Gulielma Parry (wife of Mordecai), died to- 
day. Meeting. 

10th. — Samuel Test, jr., died to-day of cholera; a valuable mem- 
ber. We feel his loss much. 

11th. — Funeral about ten o'clock; and meeting afterward. 

13th. — A letter is received, this morning, from our dear William 
H. Ladd, giving us information that our dear Caroline was confined 
on the 8th instant, having given birth to a daughter, and that she 
is doing well. Our feelings are greatly interested for her. 

15th.— -Joshua Bailey Hunnicutt was buried this morning. 

16th. — Samuel Charles died this afternoon, about four. Gathered 
home, we have reason to hope, in a good old age. 

Two days past, there seemed to be a decided decrease of cholera r 
to-day it appears to be worse. 

Good accounts received from our dear children at Cincinnati, and 
also from those near Richmond, Ohio; our dear Caroline seems to- 
be doing well. 

Eighth-month 17. — Last night Jane Morrison (wife of Robert) r 
died of apoplexy. 



1849.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 47 

I have received very acceptable letters from my dear friends 
Hugh Balderston, of Baltimore, and Richard Mott, of New York. 

23d. — Sickness seems in general better; yet there is much afflic- 
tion in the family at Thomas Symons'. My sister Hannah con- 
tinues very weak and low; and John and Rebecca Thistlethwaite 
are both very ill of cholera, yet, I hope, in the way of recovery. 

I set off this morning in the omnibus for Cincinnati on the busi- 
ness of the bank. 

2-4th. — In Cincinnati ; and on the 25th until two P. M., then came 
out to Hamilton. Last night I staid at W. A. Rambo's. Our dear 
children are well as usual; and the health of the city is now con- 
sidered to be good, the cholera having almost left it. It was very 
awful at its worst; one hundred and thirty-seven deaths in one 
day is reported as the highest number; the whole number of deaths 
from cholera, in about six weeks, amounted, according to the reports, 
to upward of four thousand. 

25th. — First-day. — Being weary last evening, I rested very com- 
fortably at Hamilton until two P. M., to-day, and am much refreshed. 
I have passed the time mostly in my room, and partly in reading. 
Besides the Scriptures, I have with me Lynch's Expedition to the 
River Jordan and the Dead Sea, which I am reading with much 
interest. 

I was favored to arrive safely at home in the evening, and to find 
my dear family well as I could expect; which is cause of grateful- 
ness to the good Giver of all good things. 

26th. — Visited my dear sister Hannah in the morning; I am 
much affected at her low condition of health and strength; she in- 
forms me that she has not been able to take nutriment for five days 
past. She seems sweet spirited and resigned; which is comforting. 

28th. — Third-day. — Meeting of the acting committee of the 
boarding-school. The school was suspended, about a month ago, 
on account of the cholera in the vicinity, and all the scholars went 
away, except one or two. B. C. Hobbs and Rebecca, his wife, have 
just retired from the superintendency, and Thomas Hill and Tamar, 
his wife, have come in and taken their station in that capacity. Our 
meeting to-day was in good degree agreeable. Lewis A. Estes and 
Huldah, his wife, have gone to New England on a visit. 

My sister H. seems somewhat more comfortable to-day. 

Sarah Williams, wife of Richard, sen., died of cholera to-day 



48 



LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1849. 



about ten A. m. She was first found to be ill last evening about 
five p. m. 

Eighth-month 29. — Elizabeth Rambo, wife of Nathan, died this 
morning about three A. M. of cholera"; she has been very ill for 
more than a week. William A. Rambo is here from Cincinnati. 

We hear of several cases of small pox in town to-day. There 
appears to be very few of cholera. 

Funeral of Sarah Williams at ten A. M. Meeting. 

Sister H. decidedly more comfortable. 

30th. — One death of small pox in town last night. 

Funeral of Elizabeth Rambo at ten A. M. 

Funeral of Hannah Marmon, widow of James W. Marmon, at 
half past three. She died, after a lingering illness, last evening, 
about seven o'clock. 

31st. — Myself and wife, and our valued friends William Ken- 
worthy and Benjamin Fulghum, set uff together early this morning 
to Milford, to attend our Quarterly Meeting. 

Meeting for Ministers and Elders at eleven ; African committee 
at two; auxilliary Bible association at three. The exercises of 
the day were in good degree satisfactory. 

Ninth-month 1, 1849. — Seventh-day. — Was engaged last evening, 
and early this morning, on the subject of preparing a memorial of 
our honored father, Benajah Hiatt. Made some progress as to 
materials. 

Education meeting at nine — satisfactory and encouraging. The 
cause appears to have advanced much since our present organization 
of the education committee began fairly to operate. Several good 
schools are now. kept up much of the time in the limits of our 
Quarterly Meeting, and the scale and tone of education has greatly 
advanced. Besides the lower branches, grammar, geography, phi- 
losophy, chemistry, and several branches of the mathematics are now 
taught in several of the schools. 

Quarterly Meeting at eleven o'clock A. M. A solemn, favored 
meeting, in which there was much religious communication, doc- 
trinal and practical. Meeting rose about four o'clock. We dined, 
at Aaron White's, and came home, having a very pleasant evening 
ride, the weather cool, roads good and full moonlight. 

The turnpike from Richmond to Centerville is now in progress 
of completion, and seems likely to be done this fall. 






1849.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 49 

It is cause of thankfulness to find our dear family well as usual, 
and that sickness has so much abated. 

4th. — James Cockayne, sen., died to-day, at his son James', at 
Orange. 

15th. — Much attention to my office since last date. We are 
blessed with good health. Our crops of corn are very luxuri- 
ant and beautiful, the season having been very favorable. The 
wheat crop is more of a failure than I ever recollect to have known 
before. But in this country we have been always blessed with 
plenty. How grateful we ought to be, for we have no good gift, 
even of the outward kind, which is not from the one good (river, 
toward whom we ought to look with gratitude and hope. 

General good health seems to be now restored. 

Forty-nine deaths, of all diseases, are reported to have occurred 
from cholera, in Richmond ; and twenty-five more in the vicinity, 
or persons brought here ; making seventy-four in all. 

On the 6th instant, our children, William H. and Sarah Coffin, 
removed with their family, to reside at Chester ; our desires go with 
them, that they may do well. 

Received an interesting letter from Richard Mott. 

25th. — Since the last date I have been much engaged in my office, 
about my daily business, and at small intervals in reading Lyneh's 
Expedition to the River Jordan and the Dead Sea, in which I have 
been much interested. What a change in the land of Canaan from 
the days of David to the present time ! And how wonderfully and 
fearfully true have been those prophesies concerning what should fol- 
low upon the Jews for their wickedness and departure from the one 
only true and living Jehovah, the great and merciful Being, who 
was pleased so greatly to favor that once great nation ! In reading 
the narration of travelers, there is scarce a place, or river, or town 
site which does not abound with matter for interesting inquiry and 
recollection. 

We have continued to enjoy good health in our family, and I be- 
lieve there is no epidemic disease now prevailing; yet there is 
occasionally a death from cholera, and I hear of a few cases of 
small-pox. 

I have feared that I should be too much engrossed with the out- 
ward concerns of this life, which have pressed much upon me of 
late, things lawful in themselves, and necessary to be attended to 



50 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1849. 

In their proper place. But I have been almost chafed with the mul- 
tiplicity of such concerns for awhile past. May I be favored with 
strength to keep in the patience. At times I have been mercifully 
favored with some good feeling. 

We have accounts of Ohio Yearly Meeting, rather more favor- 
able this year ; less debate and discussion than last. 

26th. — -Monthly Meeting. Bather a good time. Our dear 
Charles and Bh,oda having removed to James Hunnicutt's board- 
ing-house, some time past, are induced to return to our house 
to-day, on account of a case of small-pox occurring in J. H's 
family. 

30th. — In the evening, Amos and Edith Griffith of Bedstone 
Quarterly Meeting, Penn., came in, having come to attend our 
Year!}'- Meeting. , 

My dear sister, Hannah S.. not so well for the last week. 
Tenth-month 1, 1849. — Second-day. — In the afternoon's stage- 
coach, our beloved friends, Benjamin Seebohm and Bobert Lindsay, 
of England, and Joseph and Daniel P. Haviland, of Dutchess 
county, New York, came in. We were truly glad to see these, our 
dear friends. By the Cincinnati omnibus, our dear friends, Wm. 
Grossman and Ann Townsend, came in. Bebecca Coffin, from near 
Bichmond, Ohio, is here; she brings us a good account of our dear 
children there. 

2d. — At ten o'clock A. M., the Yearly Meeting of Ministers and 
Elders met. A time of much solemnity and favor. At three 
o'clock P. M., the Meeting for Sufferings ; a good meeting. Beceived 
report on books, and on the Yearly Meeting's library of refer- 
ence ; three hundred and sixty volumes now in the latter. The 
subject of presenting a memorial to Congress, against the extension 
of slavery into any of the territories of the United States, and the 
admission of any new State into the Union, the constitution of 
which shall permit slavery, was solemnly considered, and a com- 
mittee was appointed to prepare one, if way should open. 

3d. — At eight o'clock a. m., the general boarding-school com- 
mittee met. An interesting and agreeable time. At eleven o'clock, 
the Yearly Meeting for Worship convened. Not nearly so large as 
at some past years. Our friends, J. and D. P. Haviland, and B. 
Seebohm, spoke in the ministry, and E. Griffith, in prayer. Three 
o'clock p. M., Indian committee; an agreeable and interesting time. 



1849.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 51 

It is very consoling to find that precious unity exists among us, 
and brotherly love, in a very comforting and cementing degree. 

4th. — Fifth-day. — Yearly Meeting at eleven o'clock. Decidedly 
smaller than for many past years; sickness the cause, no doubt. 
Proceeded with the usual business. A very good feeling prevailed. 
There are now fifteen Quarterly Meetings. The epistles from other 
Yearly Meetings were edifying; I was evidently favored in reading 
the London general epistle. 

At four o'clock p. m., African committee. Attendance large ; an 
interesting meeting ; yet there was not time for all to relieve their 
minds. 

At six o'clock p. m„, the general committee on education, a large 
attendance, and a good meeting. The feeling in favor of proper 
education seems to be increasing ; so there is reason for being en- 
couraged. 

Tenth-month 5. — Sixth-day. — Eight o'clock A. it., Meeting for 
Sufferings. Ten A. M., Yearly Meeting. The state of Society con- 
sidered. Much valuable counsel and admonition offered. A favored 
day. Four o'clock P. m., Meeting for Sufferings. Memorial to 
Congress reported and adopted. Six o'clock P. m., epistle commit- 
tee ; also committee, on list of meetings and map. 

6th. — Eight o'clock A. M., Meeting of Ministers and Elders. 
Ten o'clock A. M., Yearly Meeting. The report of the Baltimore 
committee of conference read; then the document prepared by the 
associated committees. It made a powerful and favorable impres- 
sion. I was evidently much favored in reading it. A very large 
expression of unity followed, and no dissent. It was adopted with 
excellent feeling. Several other interesting matters considered. 
Four o'clock P. M., Indian committee. Six o'clock P. M., general 
committee on education. 

7th. — First-day. — Two large Meetings for Worship to-day ; yet 
not nearly so large as at some past years. 

8th. — Eight o'clock a. m., general boarding school committee. 
Ten o'clock a. m., Yearly Meeting. Four o'clock P. M., African 
committee, but this I did not attend. Six o'clock P. M., epistle 
committee. Much interesting business attended to to-day. 

9th. — Eight o'clock a. m., Meeting of Ministers and Elders, 
which came to a very solemn conclusion. The meeting made me 
think of the Christian Church in apostolic times. 



52 



LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1849. 



Eleven o'clock a. m., Yearly Meeting. Besides, other important 
business ; the epistles to other Yearly Meetings were read and 
adopted ; and the business being gone through, the meeting came 
to a very solemn and harmonious conclusion, at about half-past two 
o'clock. Brotherly love and unity prevailed to a remarkable de- 
gree, and the meeting parted in deep feeling of warm and lively 
Christian fellowship, under the public acknowledgment that Divine 
mercy and favor had been eminently extended to us ; and that it 
had been good for us to be together. 

Four o'clock p. m., Meeting for Sufferings. Arranged for print- 
ing the Baltimore document. 

10th. — Several of our friends left us this morning. B. Seebohm, 
It. Lindsay, J. and D. P. Haviland, took the stage for Springfield, 
Ohio. Meeting at eleven o'clock a. m. After meeting, the acting 
committee of the boarding-school, on the employing of teachers. 
Mary Ann Buffum has arrived from Providence, and is engaged. 

11th. — Edith Griffith had an appointed meeting at Whitewater, 
at eleven o'clock. It was well attended, and a favored meeting. 

12th. — Amos and Edith Griffith and Ann Townsend left us this 
morning for Cincinnati. 

19th. — Since the last date, I have been very closely engaged in 
my office. Considerable rain has fallen within the last two weeks ; 
and we have also had several white frosts, more particularly within 
the last few days; the tomatoes, dahlias and other tender plants are 
much killed ; and the yellow leaves of the trees and various other 
things, in the weather and in the vegetable kingdom, give evident 
signs of the presence of autumn. The corn crops are generally 
fine ; some of the corn is becoming dry, so that we have had some 
excellent new meal. The crop of Irish potatoes is much of a 
failure ; yet some are raised. Our own is a failure, with a small 
exception. Potatoes are now thirty-seven and a half to forty cents 
the bushel, about double what they have usually sold for at this 
season of the year. Fruit is also scarce in this neighborhood this 
year ; good apples for winter are selling at from forty to fifty cents 
per bushel. Yet we have abundance, not only of the necessaries, 
but many of the luxuries of life. How ought our hearts to be 
warm with thoughtfulness and gratefulness for the blessings we 
have ! 

My mind is frequently turned to think of the mercies of the 



1849.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 53 

Lord, and to crave his favor and blessing. I have frequently felt 
low, and as if I am not all I ought to be. To have one's whole life 
and manners made conformable to the sweet spirit of the gospel of 
peace, is indeed a great consideration ; yet desirable beyond any 
Ihing else here below. I have not felt entirely clear in my mind ; 
a fear and something like a conviction has attended me, at times, 
that I lack much, very much ; and I have looked forward to the 
prospect that some affliction might be permitted to overtake me. 
My desire is very great that I might be better prepared for what- 
ever may be allowed to come ; and ! that Divine mercy and 
goodness may be with me all the days of my life. 

My dear wife is progressing in the reading of the Memorials of 
Rebecca Jones, in the family, of evenings. I am much interested 
and edified thereby. I am not yet through the third volume of 
William Allen, but am still making some progress; having finished 
Lynch's Expedition. 

Our boarding-school was opened on the 15th, with pretty good 
prospects. Thomas and Tamar Hill, superintendents; Lewis A. 
Estes teacher of the boys' and Mary Ann Buffum teacher of the 
girls' department. 

We have engaged Daniel Clark as teacher of our Monthly Meet- 
ing's school, at Whitewater. 

Tenth-month 21. — My son Charles went to-day to Waynesville, 
on account of the dangerous illness of Joel W. Johnson. 

23d. — Meeting of the acting committee at the boarding-school ; 
an agreeable meeting. An interview was also had between the 
committee and the scholars ; about thirty scholars present. I was 
closely engaged upon various concerns in the school until night. 

Returned about dark, and found Charles at home. He left 
Waynesville yesterday. Joel W. Johnson was then living, and 
there appeared no immediate prospect of death ; but this afternoon 
Charles has received a message by telegraph, making the sad an- 
nouncement of his decease, about two o'clock this morning. Sad 
indeed ! A young man, just in the bloom of life, with very flatter- 
ing prospects of worldly prosperity, and having recently entered 
into marriage engagement with an amiable young woman (the 
engagement not yet consummated), and having a widowed mother 
near him requiring his care and sympathy, now removed from 
works to rewards ! Truly this is a changing and uncertain world \ 



54 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1849. 

but we must believe that it is all under the orderings of Infinite 
Wisdom; under that All-seeing Eye, which sees not as man sees. 
It becomes us, while deeply affected and humbled by such a stroke, 
to seek after perfect resignation, and to bless the name of the Lord 
in all things. The consideration of our own precarious existence 
here below, should be renewedly revived in our minds, and a due 
preparation for our final change kept in lively remembrance, in 
order that our hearts may be made better. " Lord, make me to 
know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I 
may know how frail I am. Behold, thou hast made my days as 
a handbreadth, and mine age as nothing before thee." Psalm 
xxxix, 4, 5. 

24th.— Fourth-day. — Whitewater Monthly Meeting. We had a 
very quiet, agreeable meeting, and much good feeling appeared to 
prevail throughout ; a favor for which we ought to be thankful. 

26th. — Committee of Whitewater school. The school has as yet 
only about twenty-five scholars. Daniel Clark opened the school 
as teacher, on last Second-day. 

27th. — Thomas O'Hara died this morning. 

28th. — First-day. — After meeting, to the boarding-school, to 
attend the Scripture reading. Afterward, to see sister H. S., who 
is much improved, yet not so as to be out. Our dear Rhoda went 
with us to meeting to-day, for the first time during about a year or 
more past; and, in the afternoon, to the school, etc. It seems very 
pleasant that she is so much improved in health. 

Eleventh-month 1. — This evening our dear Miriam A. Rambo 
arrived from Cincinnati, on a visit. It is very pleasant to have her. 

3d.-— I have had a busy and laborious week in my office. The 
weather has been fine ; and we are blessed with a good share of 
health, which is ever cause for thankfulness. Proceeding in the 
reading of the Memorials of Rebecca Jones, of evenings. My dear 
wife reads. 

5th. — This day is our annual election for officers in our branch 
bank. I am continued cashier, and my son Charles, teller and 
clerk. At A. C. Blanchard's to dinner, and several at our house 
to supper. Our friends Henry E. Peelle and wife with us at night. 
I have felt low. 

6th. — Our daughter Mary has entered the boarding-school to-day ; 



1849.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 55 

hope it may be for good. Hannah Amelia goes to our Whitewater 
school, Daniel Clark teacher. I still feel very low. 

10th. — I have had a very busy week; and much of the time 
have felt very low. 

11th. — I have felt some better to-day. Went to the Scripture 
reading at the boarding-school this afternoon. Twenty-four girls 
and twenty-six males now in the school. 

16th. — My brother Paul having lost his house by fire, and 
received a considerable burn upon his person, I went to visit him. 

17th. — Returned to-day, taking Milton in my course, and stop- 
ping to dine with our dear aged mother E. Hiatt, and C. and H. 
Dickinson. Read Memorial of our deceased father Hiatt. 



56 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1849. 



CHAPTER III. 

Visits to Schools and Meetings — Bible and Tract Societies — Indiana 
Yearly Meeting. 

Eleventh-month 17. — I remember that this is my birth-day. I 
am fifty-one. What an eventful year has the past been ! Many 
solemn reflections seem naturally to arise upon the rapid passing 
away of time, and the great changes which have taken place within 
the year. 

22d. — Our dear daughter Miriam and her two children left us 
this morning for Cincinnati. 

23d. — -Our aged friend Jeremiah Hubbard departed this life this 
morning early. 

25th. — First-day. — I went, my dear wife with me, to New Garden 
to-day, to attend the burial of our departed friend, at ten o'clock. 
A solemn meeting afterward ; the whole a solemn day. Called to 
see our beloved young friends Cornelius and Sarah Woodward, 
and afterward John Hubbard and family, and returned home in 
the evening. 

27th.— Acting committee boarding-school. An awful and thrill- 
ing scene comes to our knowledge to-day. Our dear friend Anna 
Almy Jenkins of Providence, Rhode Island, and her daughter 
Sarah, perished in the burning of their own dwelling-house on the 
morning of the 20th instant. The announcement of the distress- 
ing fact spreads a feeling of deep sorrow wherever it is heard. 
My dear friend Thomas Evans, writes me an account of it ; and 
brings to mind the pathetic watch-word, "Be ye also ready." 

The school seems to be doing well, and our dear Mary is well 
pleased with her situation. 

28th. — Monthly Meeting. Were favored to get along agreea- 
bly. Alpheus Test proposes marriage with Elizabeth Moffitt. 

30th.— Quarterly Meeting of Ministers and Elders. African 
committee at two o'clock. Auxiliary Bible association at three 



1 S4'J J ."1 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN*. 57 

k. All agreeable meetings, comfortably blessed wit! 
of unity and good feeling. 

J :h 1. 1 S 4 9 . — Quarterly Meeting. A time of favor 

and unity •;: feeling. Our de i friend Daniel Williams opened a 
rD t( visit the Quarterly an :1 M : nthly Meetings in the limits : t 
Indiana Yearly Meeting, and to apt tint some meetings among others 
exee] : Friends, which was united with, and he was encouraged t: 
proceed therein. The business from the Yearly Meeting dis] :-r: 
of satisfactorily. 

Sth. — I have been very closely engaged in my regular busines- 
this ~eek. and have cause for thj lkful ssb for the good 
which I and my dear family fa i permitted to enjoy: for the 

comfortable feeling which has at many times been present, ao 
various other blessings. It is now a time of :-:r. good health gan- 
-. in our town and neigh": :>rhool: the small-pox, which for 
some time :: *st has been in and about our town, in a mild way. has 
nearly, perhaps quite, disappeared. 

The latter part ef the fall and the winter, has been remark 
mild, until this week, we have snow: but the weather is not vet 
very severe. 

12th. — Thermometer-—: iegrees above zero this morning. A 
fine cleat morning. Our dear Rhoda 5 I saltfa gr^atty unproved 

13th. — A very busy day in ny office. Charles absent at '" v r.:in- 
nati. 

Twelfth- ft 16. — Firs'-Jay. — After meeting, went tc thel 
ug-Bchoel and attended the Scripture reading in the beys iepart- 
ment. 

25th. — To the acting committee, boar:]'- g-sehool. Thermome- 
ter two degrees below zero this morning. Our dear Mary aprear; 
r harpy at the school. There are twenty -eight in each 
department, and they seem to be loing well. 

Many very serious considerations come into my mind to-iav. It 
ignated a- t| in which the Saviour of the world vras 

born. The event was a glorious one beyond all expression, "(rod so 
)vec the vr::ii that he gave his only begotten Sen. that whosoeveT 
believethin Him should not re::sh." "tut have eternal lite. Eternal 
life! what a consideration! And just to think of our lost and z : -- 
erable condition without our Saviour's love! A lively sense A : - 
utte hie and internal gratitude should fill our hearts tor the 



58 LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. [1849. 

mercy of God through our Lord Jesus Christ. May I ever think 
of it; and may it have a marked influence over my conduct and my 
life. And as the time rapidly approaches, when it will be infinitely 
beyond every other consideration, to be found in the arms of Christ? 
among the nations of them that are saved, with Christ as the King, 
may I more and more yield to be his servant in truth and sincerity 
now, and seek for being more thoroughly under His kingdom and 
government. May the Lord help me with his Holy Spirit, and may 
my faith and obedience be increased. 

26th. — Fourth-day. — Monthly Meeting. Daniel Williams at- 
tended with his certificate : his services edifying ; had a good meet- 
ing. London General Epistle read, and business from the Yearly 
Meeting attended to. 

28th. — To Whitewater school with the committee. The school 
has now about sixty scholars, under the care of Daniel Clark and 
wife. The school seems to be doing pretty well. The commit- 
tee is to report to next Monthly Meeting. 

29th. — Our beloved children, Charles and Rhoda, having pur- 
chased the dwelling and property lately occupied by Robert Hill, 
and her health and condition having greatly improved, removed from 
our house to their own, to-day. Their company has been cordial 
and pleasant to us, and we shall no doubt feel the loss of it. But 
we rejoice that our dear daughter is better; and in the encourage- 
ing circumstances which now attend them. 

30th. — Cold. Thermometer two degrees below zero this morn- 
ing. Our dear Mary at home last night on a visit. She returned 
this afternoon to the boarding-school, and I also went, and attended 
the Scripture reading with the girls to satisfaction. 

31st. — Thermometer five degrees below zero at six A. m. Weather 
beautifully clear. Some snow, and much ice. Remarkably healthy 
in the town and neighborhood generally. 

It is a solemn thought that the year now draws to a close. How 
fast the years pass away. How soon must our lives be gone, and 
we be no more here below ! O that I and my dear family may be 
prepared for our latter end. What a blessed place is Heaven — and 
how unspeakably desirable to be permitted to partake of that happy 
home forever. And to think of the company there. Saints and 
angels, and glorified spirits who have gone before us. We have 
much to arouse and stimulate us to watchfulness and faithful- 



1850.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 59 

ness : and may we not exclaim with Dr. Young, " How much is to 
be done! " May I constantly remember that the night cometh in 
which no one can work. Heavenly Father! favor me with the 
Holy Spirit, and make my duty clearly known to me, and help me 
to do it. " Lead me not into temptation, but deliver me from evil." 

First-month 1, 1850. — A fine morning. Thermometer six degrees 
above zero. What a wonderful year the past has been ! What a 
great number of very important events have taken place. The 
revolutions in Europe; the immense flow of men into California 
in quest of gold, found there in so great quantities ; the awful 
prevalence of that dreadful pestilence, the cholera, in so many 
places ; and, perhaps, many other things are to be noticed as great 
events. Further, we turn our minds to the number of our dear 
friends and acquaintances who have been taken from works to re- 
wards, during the year. 

I have been engaged, among other things, in promoting the sale 
of about 900 copies of Evans' Exposition, among Friends of the 
Yearly Meeting; also, a large number of the "Selection of Advices" 
of the Yearly Meeting of London — a valuable work. I feel satis- 
faction in having endeavored to promote the circulation and reading 
of these books. I am now engaged in endeavoring to procure the 
publication of an edition of "Fuller's Catechism,''' which I think is 
a good little work for families, and I hope may do good. 

My dear wife has continued the reading to us of evenings, the 
Memorials of Rebecca Jones, which has been instructive and edify- 
ing. She has, also, read recently the Memorials of deceased Min- 
isters, published by the Yearly Meeting of London in 1849. 

How thankful we ought to be for the many opportunities of in- 
struction and enjoyment, which are allowed to us. We should con- 
sider much upon those favors. 

4th. — Funeral of Isaac Anderson. 

5th. — Still continues cold, with much ice, and the ground covered 
with snow. Thermometer two degrees below zero this morning. 
Beautifully clear. Very healthy. 

8th. — Edmund Winslow, son of Jacob Winslow, near Dublin, 
a young man and scholar in our boarding-school, died this after- 
noon. An afflictive dispensation to his parents, and an afflicting cir- 
cumstance to his fellow-scholars and the family. 

9th. — My dear wife went to the school in the morning, and re- 



60 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1850- 

mained until the deceased was taken away; I was indisposed and 
did not go, — but went to meeting, which she also reached. 

11th. — Finished reading the Memorials of Rebecca Jones. An 
interesting, instructive and edifying work. 

18th. — Somewhat indisposed for several days past, yet so as to 
be about the house, and out to my office each business day. I have 
been engaged in compiling a revised list of meetings in Indiana 
Yearly Meeting. My mind has also been drawn to think of the 
present state of our libraries, with desires for their increase in 
usefulness; and also, I much desire that the members of our Yearly 
Meeting might be encouraged to procure good books, for their own 
families, on religious and moral subjects, and promote the circula- 
tion and reading of such as would spread a knowledge of our prin- 
ciples, and uphold the standard of truth and righteousness. 

We have commenced reading in our family of evenings, the 
Life and Correspondence of William and Alice Ellis, by Jas. Back- 
house ; a copy of which has been kindly sent me by my dear friend 
Josiah Foster. 

Our morning lessons are now in the book of the Acts of the 
Apostles, which is renewedly interesting and instructive. 

First-month 22. — Acting committee, boarding-school. Several 
interesting matters were acted upon. The scholars appear to be do- 
ing well. The superintendents are agreeable and the teachers very 
satisfactory. 

23d. — Monthly Meeting. My dear wife and myself having felt 
our minds for some time past drawn to visit, in the love of Truth, 
several families, most of them our near relations, in the limits of 
Walnut Ridge and Spiceland Monthly Meetings, we felt best satis- 
fied to expose the matter to our friends to-day. The meeting free- 
ly united with us, and minutes were made to that effect. The good 
feeling that attends is humbling. May we be favored to keep low, 
and in our proper place. that we may be blessed with a measure 
of the Good Spirit, and be favored to exalt, rather than lower, or 
discredit, the good cause that we pretend to advocate. And may 
the name of the Lord be our help and our shield, and uppermost 
in our hearts. 

26th. — Went to Cincinnati on business. 27th, 28th. — At Cincin- 
nati. Our little Catechism is in type, and the plates are to be done 
soon. 29th. — Returned home. My dear Hannah Amelia has been 



1850.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 61 

with me this journey, and the visit to our children in Cincinnati 
has been pleasant. 

They are about making a railroad from Cincinnati to Hamilton. 
It is said the stock is taken. Part of the grading is done. 

30th. — Fourth-day. — Meeting. Our dear friend Anna Thorn - 
burgh was present, and had acceptable and edifying service in the 
ministry. She has it in prospect to visit part of the meetings in our 
Quarter and in New Garden Quarter. 

Second-month 1, 1850. — To the boarding-school in the after- 
noon. 

Second-month 2. — Thirty years ago, to-day, my dear wife and 
I were joined in marriage at New Garden in North Carolina. My 
mind returns to those scenes of our early life, which occurred about 
that time, with deep and lively interest. How deep and ardent was 
our affection for each other — and how active our interest in the af- 
fairs of our new situation. And now that we have lived together 
thirty years, may we not say that our affection is undiminished. 
We have passed through many probations, and what have seemed 
to us at the time as severe afflictions, yet we may acknowledge with 
humility, and heartfelt gratitude, that we have been blessed quite 
beyond what we could have asked or thought. "We now enjoy com- 
forts beyond what we could once have looked for, and the enjoy- 
ment of society, and of our children, and of one another, is indeed 
very great. We ought not, therefore, to be ashamed to speak well 
of the good and merciful Giver of all the comforts and enjoyments 
of our present life, both temporal and spiritual. 

3d. — First-day. — Avery wintry, stormy day of wind and snow. 
I have made good progress with the list of meetings. We are in- 
terested and edified with the reading of the Life and Correspondence 
of William and Alice Ellis. My dear wife still reads of evenings. 

4th. — Thermometer ten degrees below zero. Fine and clear: 
much snow ; pretty good health, generally. 

5th. — Thermometer nearly fifteen degrees below zero at \ past 
six, A. M. ; weather clear ; much snow. One o'clock p. m., thermom- 
eter twenty-two degrees above zero ; weather becoming hazy. 

Second-month 14. — Much snow fell last night, so that we have a 
greater depth now on the ground than common ; greater, I think, 
than we have had for several years before. It looks very wintry 
this morning, yet the cold is not severe. We have been looking 



62 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1850. 

toward this day to set off upon our proposed visit to Walnut Ridge, 
etc. It appears discouraging this morning, but perhaps things 
may appear brighter by the afternoon. 

Since the last date, I have been blessed with good health, and 
have been busily engaged in various duties and concerns appertain- 
ing to an active life. Our business has progressed rather agreeably. 
Our schools appear to be doing well, but we have some trouble. 

The apostle says, Romans V, (which was our lesson this morn- 
ing) "we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." 
I am much impressed with this description of apostolic experience ; 
while I acknowledge the Lord's mercy toward me, through our 
blessed Saviour, — I must seek for greater experience in that peace to 
which the apostle alludes, by greater faithfulness. 

We set off after two o'clock P. M., on our proposed journey, 
there being much snow on the ground, and more falling. Having 
proceeded about eight miles, the weather was so very inclement, 
and the road so soft in some places under the snow, that we found 
it too hard on our horse, besides being too exposing to ourselves ; 
therefore considered it best to return. 

15th. — A pretty day. We made some exertion to get off again 
this morning, with two horses, and a friend with us ; but we seemed 
unable to bring it about, and during this day and the next, my 
mind was much on our visit, our journey, and the Monthly Meeting 
at Walnut Ridge, which occurred on the Seventh-day, the 16th. — 
In the evening of the day last named, a little light seemed to spring 
up, and I felt like renewing our effort on the Second-day morning, 
the 18th. 

18th. — Our dear friend Wm. Kenworthy having consented to join 
us ; and Richard Pedrick having kindly supplied another horse, we 
three set off early, myself, wife, and William. Called at Josiah 
Morris' to dinner — then to brother Paul's, and after a short stay, 
went forward and reached Knightstown, to our dear brother and 
sister Newby's, about eight P. M. 

19th. — To Carthage; to Friend's school there, Lewis Johnson, 
teacher, which was in good order, and interested us; thence to John 
Clark's ; thence to Bethuel White's. 

20th. — Fourth-day. — Visited the school at Walnut Ridge, Sam- 
uel Hill, teacher ; in which we were interested. Thence to Walnut 
Ridge meeting. A marriage was accomplished at the close of the 



1850.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 63 

meeting, after which our minutes were read, and Friends freely 
welcomed us among them. In the afternoon, we visited the families 
of the widow Mahalah White, and Isaac White (son of my brother 
and sister Robert and Rebecca), and went to John Newby's in the 
evening, to stay the night. At these several places, aforenamed; 
we had interesting interviews. 

Second-month 21. — In the morning to Wm. Cathon's; then to 
Westland meeting ; at the close our minutes were read. We din- 
ed at John Brown's ; then to John Coffin's ; then to Nathan Dicks 
Coffin's, he and his family residing with our sister Phebe, widow of 
my dear deceased brother Zacharias, at his late residence. We had 
a solemn and satisfactory interview. 

22d. — In the morning to Jonathan Rawle's; (Alfred Coffin was 
here ; his daughter at Nathan Dicks') ; here we had a tender time 
together ; Jonathan and Phebe and Alfred have, recently, joined 
the Methodists. Thence to Eli White's ; thence to Thomas White's; 
thence to Elihu Coffin's. Here we had an interesting circle of 
young people ; his son, Newton, having just returned home with 
his wife, and some other company, for the first time after marriage. 
To Bethuel White's in the evening. 

23d. — To Thaddeus White's in the morning ; then returning to 
B. C's, we set off homeward, and after making two calls in Carthage, 
went forward to our brother and sister Newby's, at Knightstown. 

24th. — First-day. — To Eli Charles'; to Henry White's; then to 
meeting at Raysville. After meeting, to Rich'd J. Hubbard's ; then 
an interview with Isaac and Hannah Parker, at Micah Newby's ; 
then to Nathan Parker's ; his dear afflicted wife appears to be in 
lovely sweetness of mind ; then called to see Joseph Jay, who is 
ill with consumption; afterward to Butler Hubbard's; then to 
Asher Hiatt's ; and then to Henry Sellenger's, in the country, 
where we staid. 

25th. — Second-day. — To Elias Jessop's, and made a short call ; 
then to Nathan Macy's ; then to Spiceland, and in the afternoon 
visited the school at Spiceland, and afterward went to Daniel John- 
son's, on Flat Rock, on our way homeward. 

26th. — Arrived home in the evening weary, but found all well ; 
and were thankful for the mercies and favors which had attended 
us. Our hearts have been refreshed by this visit. May we be 
more humble, and more dedicated to be just what we ought to be. 



64 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1850. 

27th. — Monthly Meeting. Returned our minutes, and Friends 
expressed their satisfaction with our report. 

Third-month 1 and 2, 1850.' — Our Quarterly Meeting at Milford. 
I have felt very low. 

3d. — First-day. — -We came homeward to the meeting at the 
boarding-school. 

7th. — We hear to-day of the decease of Parker Gordon, at Aaron 
White's, last night. A fine young man, in the flower of life ; his 
decease causes much shock in the neighborhood, and particularly 
among the young people. We understand that he appeared to 
come to a happy close. 

9th. — I have finished the list of meetings, and it is now ready 
to be reported to the committee in, the case. 

There appears to be a great rush going to California in pursuit 
of gold. Many of our acquaintance are going this season from this 
county. 

31st. — Since the last date, I have been much engaged in various 
concerns. Each day has appeared to have its full share. Through 
the kindness of a good Providence, I and my dear family have been 
blessed with a share of good health ; and good health appears to 
prevail in our parts generally. We hear of the cholera in a few 
places at a distance, but I do not know that it has been near 
here. The weather has been very fine and dry, but cold for the 
season. For all the multiplied blessings of the good Giver, how 
thoughtful and grateful should we be.. 

There is a great deal of talk about going to California in search 
of gold, etc. It is expected that many will soon set off from this 
county, and a considerable number from this town in a very short 
time. Some have already started. We feel disposed to discourage 
our friends from going, for the motive they have; and I feel par- 
ticularly against married men going and leaving their wives and 
families. Some go by the way of the Isthmus of Panama, and some 
across the wilderness and mountains, nearly westward. We have 
accounts that much gold continues to be found in California; seve- 
ral millions have been brought to our eastern seaports from that 
country within a year past. 

There is a lively feeling now in this community to join in mak- 
ing a railroad from Dayton to Richmond. There is a prospect that 
the work will soon be begun. Our turnpike to Centerville has 



1850.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 65 

been finished some months, and is doing well. It is a great out- 
ward comfort to have so good a road in place of one so very muddy 
as that from Richmond toward the west has been at many times. 

The winter session of our boarding-school closed on the 22d in- 
stant. We have had about twenty-six to twenty-eight of each sex, 
and I believe the school has been useful. The summer session was 
commenced on the 25th. 

Our dear children, Charles and Rhoda, are preparing to set out 
to-morrow, Fourth-month 1st, on a visit to the eastern part of Ohio ; 
to William H. Ladd's and elsewhere. I rejoice that Rhoda's health 
is sufficiently restored to undertake the visit; and although my 
cares and labor may be increased by Charles' absence, the relaxa- 
tion is due to him, for the benefit of 'his health, and his diligent 
and faithful services, and I encourage them to proceed. 

Letters from our dear friend Benjamin Seebohm, inform us 
that he and his companion, Robert Lindsay, have been attending 
meetings in the limits of White Lick quarter ; and being about to 
proceed toward those of Blue River quarter, they are probably en- 
gaged there now. 

Fourth-month 1, 1850. — Second-day. — Charles and Rhoda set off 
this morning upon their journey, in their own carriage, with one 
horse. Little Elijah stays with us. 

To-day is the " April election," as it is called, and a busy day. 

2d. — Many persons are leaving for California to-day. 

4th. — This evening Anna Thornburgh came in, with her com- 
panions, Lydia Bell and Micajah C. Binford. She is set out upon 
a religious visit to Philadelphia, New York and New England 
Yearly Meetings, and some of the meetings thereunto belonging. 
Her husband and Aaron Gilbert have come thus far with the com- 
pany. 

5th. — A. T. and her companions set off early this morning in the 
stage-coach for Cincinnati. Joel Thornburgh and A. Gr. returned 
homeward. 

We have had a pleasant rain this week, and the weather is now 
very fine. 

6th. — I have had a very busy week in my outward concerns. It 
has seemed to me as if my physical and mental strength have been 
scarcely equal to my labor. I feel myself at times very weak, and 
in great danger of disgracing myself, and the profession I make 



66 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1850. 

and wish to sustain. May I be preserved. Gracious assistance, 
mercifully afforded, must be sought for; if not afforded, shall I not 
sink? Instrumental help is also very cordial, when rightly ad- 
ministered. But I believe it is my place also to endeavor to take 
care of myself; as I feel that taking upon myself an increase of 
exercises and cases, may so increase my labors, as to exceed my 
strength to perform them, without too much prostration from the 
effort, and weakness and depression are the consequence. 

14th. — First-day. — The past has been another busy week ; but 
«trength has been afforded to get through it with a good degree of 
comfort. It has been cold weather for the season, and on one night 
considerable snow fell. We hear good reports from Charles and 
Rhoda on their journey. 

Our school at Whitewater meeting-house is to be opened to-mor- 
row, Semira Hiatt, teacher. 

Our First-day school for Scriptural instruction opens this day 
week. 

21st. — First-day. — Charles and Rhoda returned home last even- 
ing; they have had an agreeable and prosperous journey, and a 
satisfactory visit. They bring us a good report of the health of 
our dear children and friends in the eastern parts of Ohio. 

Our First-day school for Scriptural instruction was opened this 
morning. We had a large attendance of interesting children and 
young persons, and I hope made a favorable beginning. 

The weather has been cool and dry for the season, but there is 
now a change, and it seems more like spring. The early flowers 
are out; the buds for blossoms on several of the fruit trees, are 
coming forward, so that blossoms may soon be expected. 

21th. — Monthly Meeting. Our friend Benjamin Fulghum, ob- 
tained the concurrence of the meeting, to visit, in the love of the 
gospel, Spiceland Quarterly Meeting, and the Monthly Meetings of 
our own Quarterly, and to appoint some meetings among Friends 
and others. John Pool is to bear him company. 

26th. — To our school at Whitewater, in the afternoon. The 
teacher, Semira Hiatt, is getting along well, so far as appears. 
About thirty scholars. 

" Fuller's Catechism," our new edition, is now out. A good little 
work. I hope it may be useful. 

By the report of the warden of the Indiana State prison at Jef- 



1850.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 67 

fersonville, about one hundred and twenty-seven prisoners therein, 
it appears that the prison is supplied with about fifteen or twenty 
copies of the Holy Scriptures. I have felt concerned at this great 
deficiency, and my mind has been turned, in a degree of tenderness, 
toward my poor fellow-creatures suffering, in humiliation and deg- 
radation, the punishment for their crimes. I have written to the 
warden by Henry Dickinson, and sent a pretty good assortment of 
tracts, to be distributed among the prisoners, if the warden shall 
approve of it. 

Fifth-month 5. — Our Scripture school at Whitewater appears to 
be doing well. Probably about fifty in attendance. 

To the boarding-school after meeting. I distributed, in the 
girls' department, about twenty-three copies of Gurney's Hymns, 
which had been sent to me by a friend in Philadelphia for dis- 
tribution. 

11th. — I have been closely engaged about home, in my ordinary 
business, for the few weeks past. General good health prevails in 
our neighborhood. The spring still advances slowly; it has been 
cool and backward; but the meadows and pastures are now green, 
and the fruit trees in delightful bloom. I am thankful that I am 
given to feel some true love and gratefulness to the great and good 
Giver, for the many blessings and comforts that we have. 

I have a satisfactory reply from the warden of the State prison; 
he informs me that a supply of Bibles has been procured by the 
authority of the legislature, of which I am glad. I did propose to 
make an effort to procure a supply, in case it had not been attended 
to. He also seems glad of the tracts, and speaks particularly well 
of some. 

12th. — Distributed about thirty-five copies of Gurney's Hymns, 
in the boys' department, at the boarding-school, after Scripture 
reading this afternoon. 

I have been grieved with an anonymous review of the document 
prepared by the associated committees of Friends, at Baltimore, 
last summer. 

19th. — To our First-day Scripture school at nine o'clock A. M. 
An interesting company of about fifty young persons and children 
have attended. Meeting at eleven o'clock a. m. In the afternoon, 
to the First-day school of colored persons in Richmond. 



68 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1850. 

The weather still continues cool, and it is dry ; a prospect of a 
large yield of fruits. 

22d. — Monthly Meeting. In the evening, our dear friends 
Benjamin Seebohm and llobert Lindsay, and their companion, 
Joseph Griffin, came in. 

23d. — Our friends went to New Garden in the evening. 

25th. — New Garden Quarterly Meeting; my dear wife attended. 
Still very dry weather. We have reports, for the last few days, of 
a meditated attack upon the island of Cuba, by a combination of 
robbers and soldiers, who have, it is said, secretly associated for 
that purpose; and most of them, perhaps, Americans. Their pre- 
tended object, is said to be to subjugate the island, wrest it from 
the Spanish government, and set up an independent government in 
Cuba. A very wicked movement. 

29th. — Our dear friends, B. Seebohm and B. Lindsay, and their 
companion, Joseph Griffin, came in again this evening. 

30th. — Meeting for Sufferings. Several important matters were 
acted upon and disposed of, in harmony and to satisfaction. A 
memorial, forwarded by Milford Monthly Meeting, concerning our 
dear, honored father, Benajah Hiatt, was read, and referred to an 
appropriate committee. 

Having long felt a lively desire for increased concern and energy 
among our members in the several meetings of our Yearly Meeting, 
in the procuring, reading and circulating of suitable, sound, ap- 
proved books and tracts, on the history, faith and doctrines of our 
religious society, and also on religious, moral and scientific subjects, 
and that our libraries might be revived, increased and rendered 
more useful, I was engaged to lay the subject fully open before our 
Meeting for Sufferings. The meeting appeared to enter into the 
concern in a lively manner, and a large committee was appointed 
thereon, which was a great satisfaction to me. They are to report 
at next meeting. 

The expression of this concern, which had for some 
time engaged the serious attention of Elijah Coffin, re- 
sulted, as will be seen in the following pages, in the organi- 
zation of the Central Book and Tract Committee of Indiana 
Yearly Meeting, in the management of which he took an 



1850.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 69 

Increasing interest, and of which he served as clerk during 
the remainder of his life. 

The annexed minute, adverting to his decease, and 
adopted at the meeting of the committee, held First, 
month 27, 18(32, a few days after his dissolution, gives 
expression to the feelings of its members, and will furnish 
a proof of the estimation in which his services were held. 

We have met this morning under feelings of no ordinary char- 
acter. Our beloved Clerk and Correspondent is no more; he who 
has served the cause in which we are engaged so faithfully, ever 
since the organization of the committee, has left a vacancy that we 
feel can f not easily be filled. 

It is not only on account of his services as Clerk and Corres- 
pondent, but his labors in writing, selecting and correcting of 
tracts, the superintendency of printing, and his general oversight 
of the whole concern, together with that hearty good cheer in 
which he ever met us at our Quarterly Meetings, that we feel our 
loss so keenly. May we be increasingly stimulated to a faithful 
discharge of the work which lay so near his heart. 

A few days before his close, he dictated the following 
affectionate address, to wit : 

To the Central Book and Tract Committee; 

My Dear Friends : — My soul glows in the most tender warmth 
of affection toward you, individually and collectively; and, as a 
small testimonial of my love and remembrance and near fellowship; 
after many years' labor in connection with yourselves, I wish to 
make you a donation of a few articles of furniture for your 

office; consisting of two tables, chairs, one settee, one large 

writing-desk and one small one, one stove, one small looking-glass, 
some blinds for the windows, a case for filing papers, etc., and a 
box of pigeon-holes, together with sundry inkstands, and other 
small articles for use in the office. Then, as I believe, in a measure 
of the love of Christ, I bid you affectionately farewell, desiring 
your prosperity in the cause in which we have been engaged, and 



70 



LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1850. 



your perseverance in the good work, hoping that the Lord may 
add his blessing. 

Elijah Coffin. 
Richmond, Twelfth-month 26, 1861. 

On presentation, the above communication was received 
with manifestations of deep sorrow and warm affection. 
One alluded to the language of David as being applicable, 
saying we are u this day weak;" and many remarked upon 
the loss sustained, giving assurance that Elijah Coffin was 
loved and appreciated by his associates in the work. He 
continues his account of the Quarterly Meeting, under the 
date of Fifth-month 30 : 

The act of incorporation of our Yearly Meeting, by the legis- 
lature of the State of Indiana, was read and accepted. 

In the afternoon, the statement of meetings which I had been 
engaged in compiling, from materials sent in to me by the com- 
mittee and from other sources, was presented and partly gone 
through. 

31st. — Meeting for Sufferings at seven o'clock A. M. The state- 
ment of meetings was finished, and, with emendations, adopted, and 
is to be printed. Other matters being all gone through, which it 
seemed proper now to act upon, the meeting closed, under a sense 
of thankfulness for the favors which have attended. 

General boarding-school committee at eight o'clock. Report of 
the acting committee, by reading its minutes, satisfactory. 

Meeting of Ministers and Elders at eleven o'clock A. M. ; largely 
attended and satisfactory. 

African committee at two o'clock. Bible Association at three 
o'clock. 

Sixth-month 1, 1850.-— Seventh-day. — Branch committee on edu- 
cation at nine o'clock. 

Quarterly Meeting at eleven o'clock A. M. Certificates or minutes 
for Benjamin Seebohm, Robert Lindsay, Daniel Wood, John Miles 
and John Stanton were read; and they were all in attendance. 

We were favored with an interesting and satisfactory Quarterly 
Meeting; business progressed in the unity of Friends, and was 
disposed of to satisfaction. 



1850.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 71 

The important document prepared by the associated committees 
of several Yearly Meetings at Baltimore, in the Seventh -month 
last, was read and united with, and incorporated into our minutes. 

2d. — First-day. — Our friends B. S. and B. L. attended our 
Scripture school with us this morning. The meeting at eleven 
o'clock a. M. was large ; B. S. spoke with great force. 

3d. — Our friends set off to-day for Spiceland ; and my dear wife 
left this morning in the omnibus for Cincinnati, on a visit to our 
children there. 

8th. — My wife returned this evening, and brings a good report 
of health of our children. 

9th. — We had a pressing message this afternoon from the board- 
ing-school, that our daughter Mary was dangerously ill, from some 
cause not satisfactorily known. Having sent for two physicians, 
we hastened to the school, and found our dear Mary struggling for 
breath, in great extremity. The whole school, and ourselves of 
course, were thrown into great distress, in sympathy and fear for 
her. The physicians soon arrived, and emetics having been 
promptly given by them, vomiting was excited, and after awhile 
she was much relieved. She had been troubled with nettle-rash; 
and being exposed to a violent gust of wind, as the girls came out 
from dinner, the complaint seized upon her chest, and was explained 
to produce the violent and dangerous symptoms which ensued. 
She became easy, so we returned home in the evening. 

10th. — We brought Mary home this afternoon. She feels weak 
from the effects of her struggles yesterday; but is, we hope, in a 
way to recover. 

11th. — Our friend A. C. Blanchard, and his wife and family, set 
off this morning to New England, on a visit, expecting to be absent 
a considerable time. 

22d. — After a long time of dry weather, we have been blessed, 
since last date, with very fine and refreshing rains, which have 
revived the drooping vegetation, and cheered the spirits of the 
husbandmen. We ought to remember that every good gift, whether 
temporal or spiritual, comes to us through the favor of Him whose 
Providence rules through all his works, and that gratefulness and 
thankfulness of heart are ever due to Him, without whose favor 
what would our lives be ! Another great blessing is now generally 



72 LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. [1850. 

enjoyed in this country, calling for gratitude and acknowledgment; 
that is, the blessing of general good health. 

There is a prospect now of good crops of wheat, and corn, and 
fruits, and many other things. 

- 25th.— Our friend John Starr died this morning, about five 
o'clock. The disease appeared like consumption. 

26th.— Burial this morning; largely attended. Monthly Meet- 
ing. Our friend Benjamin Fulghum made satisfactory report of 
his visit to our Monthly Meetings, Spiceland Quarterly, etc. The 
Baltimore document was read with open partition, and well united 
with, and directed to be incorporated in the minutes or record. 

The piratical expedition against Cuba by Lopez and his asso- 
ciates, appears to have entirely failed of that success which they 
hoped for. After landing at Cardenas, and doing considerable 
mischief, they were obliged to re-embark, and being soon chased, 
were induced to make a speedy end of their wicked enterprise, 
by landing at one of the islands belonging to the United States, 
and scattering off. 

28th.— We hear that several cases of cholera occurred at Cincin- 
nati, on Seventh and First-days last. 

The harvest of hay has now commenced, and the wheat is fast 
approaching to ripeness for the reapers. 

30th. — Very warm and seasonable. Thermometer ninety-three 
degrees at two o'clock P. M. to-day. In the morning Scripture 
school we had forty-four young persons and children in attendance. 
Conduct very orderly. 1 have to-day finished reading the last 
volume of the Life of William Allen, a very entertaining and in- 
structive work. 

Seventh-month 9. — Third-day. .-—At about ten o'clock this evening, 
Zachary Taylor, President of the United States, died at Washington 
city. A deep impression is made upon the whole country by the 
intelligence of his death, so sudden and unexpected. 

11th. — Millard Fillmore, Vice-President, has been inaugurated, 
and is now the President of the United States. # 

There is much sickness at Cincinnati ; the reports of deaths from 
cholera, have been stated from twenty-eight to over sixty, upon 
different days, recently. 

A good Providence greatly blesses us with an excellent share of 
good health of late, in a general way, for which we ought to be 



1850.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 78 

greatly thankful. The weather is very hot and seasonable, ther- 
mometer over ninety degrees, several days. 

16th. — Our dear friends, Benjamin Seebohm and Robert Lindsay, 
are now with us, having returned here on the 13th inst. They were 
at Orange on the 15th, and at Smyrna to-day. 
Still warm, seasonable and generally healthy. 
We hear that the citizens of New Mexico have organized and 
formed a State constitution, excluding slavery; and that there is 
much excitement in Texas thereat. 

Seventh-month 17. — Fourth-day. — Meeting. Benjamin Seebohm 
and Robert Lindsay, present. Benjamin was lively and forcible in 
the ministry. 

18th. — Our friends set off toward Salem this morning. 
23d. — Our daughter Mary, was very ill in the evening. 
24th. — Mary is more comfortable. Attended our Monthly Meet- 
ing to-day ; our dear friends Benjamin Fulghum published to the 
meeting a concern to attend the next Yearly Meeting in Ohio, and 
John Pool expressed a willingness to bear him company. The 
meeting freely united with both. Also, our dear friend, Susannah 
Pedrick, laid before the meeting a concern to visit the families of 
•our Monthly Meeting, and some who are not members, who some- 
times attend our religious meetings, Her concern was fully united 
with, and she encouraged to go forward. 

Weather extremely hot, thermometer over ninety degrees, much, 
of the day-time, for several days together. One day ninety-five, 
another ninety-six degrees. 

Wheat crops excellent, harvest about over. 

30th. — Weather yet hot. Sickness at Cincinnati continues about 
the same ; sometimes under and sometimes over fifty interments a, 
day.; about half of the deaths are from cholera. 

Our statement of meetings is printed. I am glad to see it out, 
and feel comfortable with the review of having devoted much time 
and attention in preparing it. 

Eighth-month 1, 1850. — Fifth-day. — Our friends, John Candler 
and Maria, his wife, arrived in the coach this afternoon. They have 
been traveling for a considerable time in the West Indies, from a, 
consideration of duty, making observation and inquiry into the 
working of emancipation, etc., having for their companions George 
W. Alexander and Catharine, his wife. 
6 



74 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1850. 

4th. — First-day. — Our friends attended the First-day Scriptural 
school in the morning, then meeting. J. C. spoke well in the 
ministry. 

5th. — Our friends left this morning for Grant county, to meet 
some English acquaintances there. Their visit has been very sat- 
isfactory and agreeable to us. 

8th.— A daughter was born to our daughter Miriam, in the even- 
ing of this day. We are glad to hear that the mother and daugh- 
ter are doing well. We understand the infant's name is called 
Naomi. 

Busily engaged in my office for some time past. I was very sick 
to-day, from a bilious attack and from medicines ; but was favored 
to feel great consolation in the midst of much bodily distress, a 
favor for which I desire to be humbly grateful. Taking medicines 
and very quiet. 

9th. — Better, but not out to business. 

Eighth-month 17.- — Went to Cincinnati to-day on business. The 
cholera has disappeared almost entirely, but there is yet consider- 
able of other sickness in the city. Our friends, J. C. and wife, 
having returned from Grant county to Bichmond, and gone thence 
to Cincinnati, I met with them at meeting in the last-named city, 
on the 18th. 

In Cincinnati on the 19th, and returned home 20th. 

23d. — A. C. Blanchard and his family returned this afternoon 
from a visit to New England. 

25th. — First-day. — Our First-day morning school for Scripture 
instruction, has been well attended this summer ; we have from 
thirty to forty usually. But there are many young persons who 
do not attend, who might, as we think, be benefited thereby. 

Our Meeting for Worship at Whitewater has increased much dur- 
ing the last two years. How could we desire that vital religion 
might also greatly increase among us. 

We are favored this summer with a good share of health 
generally in our town and neighborhood. Sickness has abated 
mifch at Cincinnati, and the cholera has almost entirely disappeared 
there. 

30th. — The summer session of the boarding-school closed to-day, 
and most of the scholars are going to their homes. The weather 



1850.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 75 

has been dry for awhile past ; the crops of Irish potatoes are likely 
to be very short. 

31st. — A sad message is received to-day by our son Charles, from 
Waynesville, announcing that Rachel Arnett, wife of Thomas 
Arnett, is dying. Charles and Rhoda set off thither, in the 
evening. 

Ninth-month 3, 1850. — We hear that Rachel Arnett died on the 
31st ult., and was buried 1st inst. What an affecting shock must the 
sad intelligence of her decease be to her dear husband, now in 
Europe, engaged in his religious visit there. 

7th. — Our Quarterly Meeting was held to-day, at Milford. The 
business was transacted in harmony. How thankful we ought to 
be for the favor of unity and fellowship. Answers to all the queries 
go forward as usual, to the Yearly Meeting. 

22d. — Our First-day Scripture school was brought to a close for 
the season, this morning. It has been pretty well attended this 
summer, and to good satisfaction. 

23d. — Benjamin Seebohm and R. Lindsay dined with us to-day, 
having come from the neighborhood of Elk; then went forward 
toward New Garden. 

24th. — Our daughter, Caroline E. Ladd, with her little daughter 
Ellen, arrived this evening. We were truty rejoiced to have her 
with us again. 

29th. — B. Seebohm and R. Lindsay returned to our house this 
afternoon. 

Tenth-month 1, 1850. — Third-day. — John D. Lang, from near 
Vassalborough, Maine, and his companion, Joseph Metcalf, from 
near Providence, Rhode Island, arrived this morning. Yearly 
Meeting of Ministers and Elders at ten o'clock A. m. An agreeable 
meeting, and pretty large attendance. Nathan C. Hoag, from 
Vermont, present. 

Meeting for Sufferings at three o'clock p. M.; an interesting 
meeting. The committee on libraries, books and tracts, brought 
forward a plan and regulations for the appointment of a central 
committee, by the Yearly Meeting, and corresponding committees 
by the Quarterly and Monthly Meetings ; and an address to Friends 
on the subjects. This subject having occupied much of my atten- 
tion and consideration for a long time past, I am greatly relieved 
by this movement, and encouraged by the favor with which it 



76 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1850. 

is received by Friends, in the hope that it may be extensively 
useful. 

2d. — General boarding-school committee at eight o'clock a. m. 
Pretty satisfactory. 

Yearly Meeting for Worship at eleven o'clock A. M. A good 
meeting. Fervent and moving supplication by Rebecca Updegraff. 
Indian committee at three o'clock P. M. 

3d. — Yearly Meeting for Discipline at eleven o'clock A. m. A 
large meeting, united and very satisfactory. Business attended to, 
about in the usual manner. African committee at four o'clock P. M. 
Reports interesting. At six o'clock p. m. the general committee on 
education was held. A large attendance; business interesting. 

4th and 5th.— Good meetings ; unity and Christian fellowship 
prevail in a very satisfactory manner; a favor for which we ought 
to be deeply and humbly grateful. 

6th. — First-day. — Two large meetings to-day. 

7th and 8th. — Yearly Meeting for Discipline continued; and 
(closed on the 8th, to great satisfaction. 

The Yearly Meeting received with much favor, and united with 
the proposition to appoint committees on the subject of libraries, 
books and tracts ; and a central committee was appointed accord- 
ingly. 

The committee to confer with like committees of other Yearly 
Meetings on the general interests of society, was continued. 

The business of the meeting throughout was conducted and 
brought to a close in great harmony and unity. 

9th. — Several Friends remained with us and attended our meet- 
ing to-day (Fourth-day.) After meeting, our dear friend John D. 
Lang and his companion left. 

10th. — Our dear friends, Benjamin Seebohm and Robert Lindsay, 
took a final leave of us this morning; they go to visit the meetings 
of Alum -creek quarter ; and afterward will probably leave the 
limits of our Yearly Meeting. 

12th. — We have our dear children all with us at our house to- 
day. It gives us great pleasure to have them. 

Tenth-month 15. — Our daughter, Miriam, left for Cincinnati 
yesterday, and William H. Ladd and Caroline left to-day. 

21st. — Laboriously busy in my office since last date. 

23d. — Fourth-day. — Monthly Meeting. My dear wife opened 






1850.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 77 

to the meeting an apprehension of duty to visit, in the love of the 
gospel, the meetings and families of Westfield Quarterly Meeting. 
A very general unity and sympathy with her in the concern was 
expressed, and a minute of approbation was made. 

26th. — Our dear friends, Rebecca Clawson and Levi Jessup, hav- 
ing manifested a willingness to bear my dear wife company during 
her visit, and it being inconvenient for Levi to go forward this 
morning, I went in his stead with them to Salem Monthly Meeting 
to-day. The meeting was small, but in a good degree satisfactory. 
Our friend Jesse Arnett was also there. We went after meeting 
to our friend Henry Davis' for the night, and had a satisfactory 
visit to the family. 

27th. — First-day. — Set off early and reached our own meeting at 
Whitewater. 

28th. — Second-day. — On this day the first meeting of our central 
book and tract committee was held at Whitewater. A very inter- 
esting meeting it was; much good feeling prevailed. I was ap- 
pointed clerk and correspondent, and Levi Jessup and Charles F. 
Coffin, were appointed assistants. There is cause of gratitude that 
our first meeting in this concern opens so religiously and harmoni- 
ously ; a favor not at our command; may the Divine blessing con- 
tinue to be upon the concern. 

29th. — My dear wife and her companions set out to-day upon 
their visit to Poplar Ridge. 

31st. — This day closes our business year in our branch bank, and 
we have had much laborious service in bringing all our business 
nicely up ; but have been favored with health and strength suffi- 
cient to do it. 

General good health prevails throughout our community, and in 
the country, generally. The weather is very fine and dry ; the 
crops of wheat have been excellent ; those of corn, middling ; oats, 
rather short; hay, decidedly so ; and Irish potatoes, almost a fail- 
ure, yet there are some. Apples abundant. So it seems that in 
this favored, productive and plentiful country, good Providence 
still blesses us, not only with plenty, but with much to spare, to be 
added to increase. 

We have had some quite cool weather, with fine white frosts ; but 
nothing severe, or inclement, as yet. 

Eleventh-month 4, 1850. — Second-day. — The day of our annual 



78 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1850. 

election for directors, president, cashier, teller, etc., in our branch 
bank. The concerns were managed harmoniously, there being no 
dissention manifested. I am continued cashier, and my son, Charles, 
teller and clerk. We have the unanimous support of the direct- 
ors ; but our situations are laborious. It is very pleasant, however, 
to be favored to get along, comfortably, with our directors and 
others interested in the management of interested concerns. 

My dear wife and her company returned last evening from Salem. 

9th. — We have had a very busy week in our office. 

13th. — The State convention for the amendment of the constitu- 
tion, is now sitting at Indianapolis ; and we hear, that among other 
proceedings, it has been proposed to adopt a section which shall ex- 
clude people of color from coming into the State, and induce those 
who are now here to leave the State. This proposition has given 
so much uneasiness to some Friends, that it has been thought right 
to call a Meeting for Sufferings, to consider the subject. 

16th — The weather, for some time past, has been very fine and 
dry, and moderate for the season. The dry weather has continued 
so long that many wells have failed. Excellent general health pre- 
vails. 






1850.] LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. 79 



CHAPTER IV. 

State Constitution — Tract on Amusements — Visit to Eastern Cities — 
Bequest op Josiah White. 

Eleventh-month 17. — I do not forget, to-day, I am fifty-two years 
old. It is a very solemn thing to consider how time and the period 
allotted to us in this state of existence, passes away. I feel that 
much evil is near me, and that many temptations press hard upon 
me ; and such is my weakness and frailty, that I feel discourge- 
ment, at times, under a humiliating sense of my unworthiness 
and short coming ; yet do I not, entirely, loose my faith and 
hope ; and have sometimes to rejoice with thanksgiving, for the 
evidences of divine love and mercy which are granted to me: I 
mourn that I am not more thoroughly consistent and perfect; for 
why should I not follow Him in whom I have confidence, and un- 
der whom I have enlisted, and who, all the time, gives me more 
than I could pretend to deserve ? Let my faith and confidence in- 
crease; and may best help be afforded me to be, more and more 
at all times, and under all circumstances, more thoroughly the 
Christian, indeed. the blessedness of that situation, of being an 
Israelite, indeed, in whom there is no guile ! I remember that the 
Apostle Paul was tried with temptations, for he said, "When I 
would do good, then evil is present with me." May I not relax. 

19th. — This evening, about eight o'cloek, a most sad accident oc- 
curred. My dear and much loved friend, Benjamin Bond, fell into 
a stairway, leading into a cellar, and received a mortal wound up- 
on his head. 

20th. — My dear friend in great agony, yet alive, but appears to 
have no knowledge and does not speak. An awful and most afflict- 
ing case. 

Preparative Meeting of Ministers and Elders. A time of acknow- 
ledged favor together. 

22d. — At about ten, this morning, our dear friend, quietly, de- 
parted this life. We are greatly affected at our loss, and the great 
k)ss of his dear family and connections. 



80 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1850. 

24th. — First-day. — The burial of our aforesaid friend ; met at 
the house at half past nine. A very large number of sympathizing 
friends and acquaintances attended. A solemn meeting afterward. 
I visited the widow and family in the evening — My dear friend 
L. I. was with me. 

25th — Second-day. — Meeting for Sufferings, at eleven. About 
thirty members attended. The subject of memorializing the consti- 
tutional convention, now in session at Indianapolis, was considered. 
The meeting felt low, on account of the popularity with which the 
proposition to exclude the people of color from the state, appears to 
be entertained in the convention, and, probably in many parts of the 
State : — -But Friends united in the conclusion that it would be right 
to remonstrate against the introduction of any such provision into 
the new constitution ; and a committee was accordingly appointed 
to prepare a memorial, who reported one to a future sitting, which 
was considered, amended and adopted; and a committee of three 
Friends was appointed to attend the convention, and procure the 
presentation of it. 

25th. — Third- day. —Acting committee, boarding school. The 
The school appears to be doing well. There are now over seventy 
scholars ; the sexes about eo^ual in number. 

26th. — To Monthly Meeting— our friend Nathan C. Hoag, pre- 
sent.. "We had much business, and were favored to get through 
with it comfortably. After meeting my dear wife and her compan- 
ions, Rebecca Clawson and Levi Jessup, set off toward Elk, to 
attend to her concern in visiting the meeting and families of Friends 
belonging thereto. 

We are blessed with a very fine rain, after a long drought. Ma- 
ay springs and wells had failed. We have had no severe winter 
weather yet. 

Twelfth-month 2 f 1850.— Blessed with health and the comforts 
of life, for which I desire to be humbly grateful ; yet for some days 
past, I have had sorrow of heart comparable to the gloom of dark 
and cloudy weather. 

Not so well in health, yet somewhat brighter and less clouds in 
my mortal part. O, how shall an unworthy creature, such as I, be 
acceptable in the divine sight? yet how unspeakably desirable that 
I may be an object of mercy and acceptance. I am convinced that 
1 have been an object of divine love.. "Let the words of my moutfe 



1851.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 81 

and the meditations of my heart" become more and more accepta- 
ble in thy sight, Lord ! 

5th. — My dear wife returned this evening. It seems truly grate- 
ful for us to meet again ; and she appears easy in having fulfilled 
her religious engagement. 

6th and 7th. — Sixth and Seventh- days. — The Quarterly Meeting, 
and other meetings, regularly occurring on these days. We ought 
to bless the good name of the Lord, that we are favored together : 
unity and fellowship throughout, without discord. Our friend Na- 
than C. Hoag, attended the Quarterly Meeting. The business from 
the Yearly Meeting was appropriately acted upon, and referred. 

In the branch committee on education, a committee was appoint- 
ed, of which I am one, to visit the Monthly Meetings, etc. 

Twelfth-month 14th. — To Westgrove Monthly Meeting, at Fair- 
field ; a satisfactory meeting. The other members of the commit- 
tee were present. 

21st. — Our little grandson, Charles F. son of William and Sarah 
Coffin, has been very ill for a few days past, with erysipelas. 

22d. — To Chester. The little boy is dangerously ill. 

25th. — Our little grandson expired this morning, soon after mid- 
night, aged four years. His loss is felt very keenly by his parents, 
in which we sympathize. 

Monthly Meeting. My dear wife returned her minute. A good 
meeting. 

26th. — Fifth-day. — The burial of our grandson, at Whitewater, 
at eleven o'clock, this morning. Met at our son William's, at nine, 
and had a religious sitting together. 

Twelfth-month 29. — The past week has been one of some afflic- 
tion; may we improve. 

First-month 4, 1851. — Busily engaged about my office the past 
week. We are greatly blessed as to health. We have read through 
the entire Pentateuch in our morning Scripture readings to our 
family, recently. I do not remember that I have ever been more 
deeply impressed with the excellency of the Divine law given to 
Moses; also, various other matters relating to the history and gov- 
ernment of the children of Israel are truly wonderful. How much 
may we be instructed in reading this inspired account, in the true 
belief of the true Jehovah ; in the certainty of his Divine Provi- 
dence and government; in the gracious dealings in love and mercy 



82 



LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. [1851. 



toward those who, with an honest heart, endeavor to ohey his com- 
mandments ; and in the certainty and awful severity of the visita- 
tions of his judgments upon the rebellious and corrupt, who walk 
in the ways of sin, and regard not his statutes. 

Of evenings, we have been reading the Memoirs of Edward Bar- 
rough, in the 14th volume of the " Friends' Library." 

I have been graciously blessed many times this week with the 
sweet feeling of the love of God in my heart: how shall I be suf- 
ficiently thankful for such favors! 

12th. — Another week of engagement in my regular business. I 
have met with perplexities, in which I have not maintained the 
Christian character with that kind of dignity which afforded me as 
much satisfaction at the time, or since, as I could desire. I must 
still strive to become better as I grow older. 

Wrote to my dear friends Benjamin Seebohm and Benjamin W. 
Ladd, this week, in reply to interesting letters recently received 
from them,. 

A valuable donation of books from the estate of Josiah White, 
deceased, and another Friend, committed to the care of our book 
and tract committee, is received. Fifty Fox's Journal; eighty 
Barclay's Apology ; fifty Catechism ; fifty Bevan's View ; fifty 
Dymond's Essays; about the same number of Doolman's Journal; 
fifty Plain Path, and fifty Guide to True Peace. 

18th. — Busily engaged in my office for the past two weeks. A 
good Providence has blessed our dear family with a good share of 
health and many comforts, for which we ought to be truly grate- 
ful. The winter has been mild for this climate generally, so far. 

26th. — I have attended our Monthly Meeting, and Chester and 
Milford in the past week, with the committee on the concerns of 
education. Our labors were kindly received, and we may hope 
may not be destitute of some good effect. 

Our dear Miriam, being in low health, my dear wife went to 
Cincinnati, and has brought her home, together with her two chil- 
dren. 

29th. — We have cold weather. Thermometer eight degrees be- 
low zero. Good general health prevails. 

Second-month 1. — Sarah Ham died this morning. 

2d. — Our wedding day. We do not forget that we have spent 



1851.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 83 

another year happily together. Truly this connection is one of 
our greatest earthly blessings. 

We are reading the journal of Margaret Woods of evenings. 

23d. — Three weeks have passed away since the last date above, 
during which time I have been mostly about home, pursuing my 
daily calling, except that on the 15th I went to Cincinnati on busi- 
ness, and returned home on the 18th. The weather, this month, 
has been a good deal changeable; some days pretty cold ; many 
quite mild; and a good deal of rain. It seems a great blessing to 
have abundance of rain after a long time in which it has not been 
abundant. 

I have been engaged, with the assistance of several Friends 
around, in republishing, with some additions, a tract, under the 
following newly adopted title: "The question, why shall we not 
go to parties of pleasure, to the circus, to the party, to the ball, or 
to the dance, seriously answered." It is cause of sorrow that so 
many persons should give themselves up to the desires of the light 
and vuin mind, as to fall in with, and practice such vain amuse- 
ments as going to dances, balls, etc. We may hope that our hum- 
ble effort, in the circulation of this little tract, may have some good 
influence, at least with some individuals, into whose hands it may 
fall. 

Third-month 1. — This day was our Quarterly Meeting held at 
Milford. The meeting was held in quietness and to comfort, and 
there not being so much business as we sometimes have, it closed 
early in the afternoon. 

The Meeting of Ministers and Elders, that of the African com- 
mittee, and that of the auxiliary Bible association on the day pre- 
ceding, and that of the education committee in the morning of the 
Quarterly Meeting, were all attended with lively interest, and to 
some satisfaction. 

The past winter has, upon the whole, been mild and rather unu- 
sually pleasant for that part of the year, and evident signs of the 
approach of spring now begin to appear. 

Fourth-month 1. — The month just gone out has been very pleas- 
ant for the season, and we have enjoyed many blessings. -I very 
frequently fear that my gratefulness for these may not be so ardent 
as it should be, nor so much the companion of my mind — yet, 
through heavenly kindness, I believe I am favored frequently to 



84 LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. [1851. 

feel a sense of the bounties we enjoy. But I also very frequently 
fear that my spiritual improvement and advancement in best things, 
my thorough submission to the kingdom and government of our 
Lord Jesus Christ, does not make sufficient progress ; my profes- 
sion before men; my age, and my happiness, would all seem to call 
for greater devotedness and diligence. 

In our Scripture readings in our family we have been progressing 
through the life of Samuel, and Saul, and David. 

My friend James Backhouse has sent me a copy of his book on 
his Australian visit; which I am reading with interest; he has also 
sent me his other book, on his visit to South Africa and the Mau- 
ritius, which I hope to read. 

On the 29th ultimo our friends Johnson Brewer and Eliza, his 
wife, from Canada, both Ministers, came to my house, and on the 
next day attended our meeting, and were engaged in acceptable 
service. 

B. C. Hobb's school is closed at our meeting-house, and he is 
about leaving for the agricultural school in our Western Quarterly 
Meeting. 

13th. — Our First-day Scriptural school was opened this morning 
to satisfaction. The morning was unpleasant on account of rain ; 
but we had an attendance of twenty-eight young persons and chil- 
dren. 

It has been believed by me that a difference of sentiment on some 
important matters, affecting the unity and religious fellowship, has 
existed among some of the members of our meeting, for a consider- 
able time past ; and apprehending that the time had come for me 
to endeavor to speak to several collectively on the subject, I gave 
up, with a deeply exercised mind, to invite about twelve to stop 
with me after meeting, to whom I made known my concern. They 
heard me with a good degree of patience, and after an interview of 
nearly two hours, we parted affectionately. My mind is deeply 
concerned that the movement may be overruled for good, and for 
the honor of the good cause of truth and righteousness. 

20th. — Busily engaged, as usual, in my domestic concerns, dur- 
ing the past week. My son William having become settled at 
Chester, the care of the farm west of Richmond has returned upon 
me, which adds to the labors I had before from my office. 

Over forty scholars at the First-day school this morning. 



1851.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 85 

23d. — Monthly Meeting. Our dear friend Nathan C. Hoag was 
acceptably present. 

24th. — Having given up to endeavor to attend the meeting at 
Baltimore, on the 5th of next month, of the committees appointed 
by the Yearly Meetings of New York, New England, Indiana, 
Baltimore, and North Carolina, to confer together on subjects 
relating to the general interests of Society, I parted from my dear 
family, and set out in the stage-coach for Cincinnati, on my way; 
our daughter Mary bears me company, and is to go with me as far 
as William H. Ladd's, at Richmond, Ohio. 

We reached Cincinnati in the evening, and enjoyed a pleasant 
visit to our dear Win. A. and M. A. Bambo. 

25th. — On the Ohio Biver at eleven o'clock, aboard the steamer 
Hibernia No. 2, bound for Pittsburg; we to stop at Steubenville. 
Weather very pleasant, and river in good navigable condition. 

27th. — Arrived at Steubenville at nine o'clock a. m., and at 
William H. Ladd's at about two o'clock P. M. We were mutually 
rejoiced at meeting. 

28th. — Visited my dear brother Benjamin W. Ladd, who is in 
very feeble health. 

30th. — W. H. Ladd went with me to Steubenville; and about 
two o'clock P. M., the Clipper No. 2 passed up toward Pittsburg, 
upon which I. went, and was well pleased to find there my dear 
friend N. C. Hoag. Beached Pittsburg about midnight. 

Fifth-month 1. — Went forward to Brownsville, per steamboat up 
the Monongahela. This is a very interesting steamboat route. 
The improvements of the river navigation, the scenery of the 
uneven country through which the rivrer winds its way, the towns 
and beautifully cultivated fields, all offer objects of interest. 

2d. — I left N. C. Hoag at Brownsville (we having been kindly 
entertained at Dr. Abraham Stanley's), and proceeded very early, 
in the stage-coach, across the mountains, to Cumberland, at which 
place we arrived about ten o'clock p. m. This mountain route is 
also very interesting. 

3d. — By railroad from Cumberland to Baltimore; arrived about 
half-past five o'clock p. M., and was kindly taken in by our dear 
friend Hugh Balderston ; Joseph Cox having overtaken me at 
Cumberland, 
i 4th. — First-day. — At meeting at Baltimore, before and after noon. 



86 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1851. 

Several of the committee were in attendance; also our dear friends, 
Benjamin Seebohm and Robert Lindsay, from England. 

5th. — The committees appointed by the five Yearly Meetings 
convened together at Friends' meeting-house, in Baltimore, at ten 
o'clock a. m. The occasion was felt to be a very important and 
solemn one. 

(3th, 7th, 8th. — The associated committees continued to hold 
sittings of conference these several days. The deliberations were 
conducted in great harmony of sentiment as to the present state of 
Society; and a report'to the five Yearly Meetings, in the form of an 
address to Friends, was prepared and adopted with unity of feel- 
ing; and the conference came to a close, and the members thereof 
separated in brotherly affection. 

9th. — I went forward, in company with many other Friends, 
toward Philadelphia, and arrived in that city in the afternoon, 
about three o'clock. I was kindly entertained, during my stay in 
the city, by our dear friend Thomas Kimber. 

10th. — Attended to several matters of business, and about eleven 
o'clock A. m. visited the Girard College. This is truly a remark- 
able institution ; remarkable not only for its magnificence and great- 
cost in money, but, it seems to me, for the excellence in which the 
main building and all the auxiliary buildings and appurtenances 
generally are wrought up. I was accompanied to the college by 
Thomas Kimber, Elizabeth Hopkins, and one of T. Kimber's 
daughters; and we had notes of introduction to Jane Mitchell, 
the matron of the college, who received us politely, and very 
kindly conducted us to many parts of the institution. 

It was gratifying to see about three hundred orphan boys in 
these different schools; nearly of one size; apparently near the 
same age; with dress of the same character, and all in good order; 
with opportunities so munificent for acquiring a thorough educa- 
tion ; and provided for with all the necessary comforts at the 
expense of the institution. I visited several places in the after- 
noon, and drank tea with Samuel Bettle, jr., and family; his father 
and some other Friends being present. I had an opportunity, 
after tea, of explaining to S. Bettle, sr. and jr., our movements and 
concern at home, in regard to libraries, books, and tracts, in 
the limits of Indiana Yearly Meeting, which seemed to be well 
received. 






1851.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 87 

11 tli. — First-day. — Made a very sweet and satisfactory visit this 
morning, at eight o'clock A. m., to my dear friend Thomas Evans, 
of Philadelphia. Being himself in a low state of health, he and 
Catharine, his wife, expect very soon to embark for Europe, for 
the benefit of a sea voyage. 

To meeting at Twelfth street at ten o'clock A. M. Our friends, 
Eliza Gurney and Hannah Adams, were engaged in the ministry. 

Dined at David Scully's, and went with him to Arch street 
meeting at four o'clock P. M. The congregation did appear to me 
to be thin ; and my feelings were somewhat saddened by the re- 
flection that a considerable decline has taken place in the number 
of Friends belonging to and attending this meeting, in the last 
twenty years. 

Passed the evening agreeably with several Friends, at Charles 
Yarnall's. 

12th. — My friend Thomas Evans, of Waynesville, Ohio, having 
also remained in Philadelphia, we left the house of our kind friend 
Thomas Kimber early, in the railroad train, toward New York, 
Called at Burlington, and remained three hours or more, until the 
next train, in which time we visited our aged and honored friends, 
Stephen Grellet and wife, and Richard Mott and Abigail, his wife; 
also William J. Allinson and family. His aunts, Mary, Sybil and 

, now constitute a part of his family. It was interesting 

and instructive to meet with these dear friends once more, and 
renew affectionate acquaintance. 

We proceeded before eleven o'clock, and arrived in New York 
City about three o'clock p. m. I hastened around, attending to 
some business ; then called at Wm. F. Mott's, and made a short 
visit; then proceeded to the steamer Isaac Newton, upon North 
River, which was to leave at six o'clock for Albany. Being very 
weary, I went to bed soon after becoming settled upon the boat. 
The night was very fine, and I could have desired, had my physical 
strength been sufficient, to have been up and enjoyed the beautiful 
scenery upon the river. 

13th. — We arrived at Albany about three o'clock a. m. Took 
breakfast at a hotel, and were off in the railroad cars about 
seven o'clock for Buffalo, which last city we reached about ten 
o'clock p. M. 

14th. — We took the railroad cars, at nine o'clock a. m., for the 



88 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1851. 

Falls of Niagara, and arrived there at about half-past ten o'clock. 
We remained until six o'clock P. m., during which time we viewed 
this great and interesting wonder of the creation from various 
places, on both sides of the river. It seems to me that no one of 
susceptible mind could view this great work without feelings of 
awe and delight, nor without having the mind turned to acknowl- 
edge and adore the great Creator of all. Language would fail me 
to represent to the mind of another a description, to the life, of 
this wonderful scene, which, it appears to me, no one can behold 
without being forcibly impressed with its magnitude, awfulness, 
sublimity, and beauty. We passed down the Canada shore to the 
wire suspension bridge, which we crossed, and returned upon the 
American side. We were told that the bridge is eight hundred 
feet long, from bank to bank ; two hundred and fifty feet from the 
surface of the river; and that the river is two hundred and fifty 
feet deep. The American Falls are said to be one hundred and 
seventy feet; the Horse-shoe or Canada Falls, one hundred and 
fifty-eight feet. The river is about three quarters of a mile wide 
above the Falls, and descends over rocks with a fall of sixty feet 
in a short distance above, before reaching the summit of the great 
Falls. It seemed hard for us to leave the region of this grand 
scene; and we returned (the cars not being quite ready to depart) 
to take another and a last view. 

We were back in Buffalo about dark, and soon went to our berths 
on the Saratoga. The boat did not leave until about eleven o'clock 
p. m. The night was extremely beautiful ; the moon was full ; the 
beautiful lake was smooth as could be wished ; and the air was fresh 
and invigorating, yet not chilling. 

15th. — Our boat touched at Cleveland about two o'clock p. M., 
and soon proceeded. It was nearly dark when we landed at San- 
dusky. Went upon the cars at once, and proceeded by the railroad 
toward Springfield. 

16th. — We were at Springfield about six o'clock A. M., where I 
parted with my dear friend Thomas Evans ; I went forward to Day- 
ton by railroad, and took the coach for home at that place about 
nine o'clock A. m.; and was favored to reach my dear home, and to 
embrace my dear family, in good health, about four o'clock P. M. 
My hearty gratitude to the good Giver of all good things, is cer- 



1851.1 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 



tainly due for the many favors which, in mercy, have attended me 
beginning to the end of this journey. 

Sixth-month 4. — General good .health prevails. We have de- 
lightful seasonable weather, and our country looks truly beautiful. 

On the 29th ult., Enos P. Baldwin and Martha Bond were joined 
in marriage at a meeting appointed for the purpose. To-day, at 
our regular meeting, Eli Stubbs and Anna F. Moffit, were married. 
Both marriages were conducted in good order and solemnity, in 
which our beautiful regulations were very well carried out. Many, 
Friends from other parts were present with us at meeting to-day. 

In the afternoon, the large committee appointed by our last 
Yearly Meeting, on the subject of sitting up a new Yearly Meeting, 
convened ; and after much deliberation, and considerable discus- 
sion, arrived at the united conclusion, that the time has not yet 
come for taking such a step. This conclusion is to be reported 
to our next Yearly Meeting. 

5 th. — Meeting for Sufferings. Our friend, Josiah White of 
Philadelphia, in his last will, made the munificent bequest of 
forty thousand dollars, for the establishment, within the limits 
of Indiana Yearly Meeting, of two schools, for the education of 
poor children, white and colored, in which their Christian training 
in the principles and practice of religion as professed by^ Friends, 
is particularly to be regarded. The case was opened in the Meet- 
ing for Sufferings for consideration, as to whether our Yearly Meeting 
would be free to accept the trust confided to it in the will. The 
case was fully considered by the meeting, and then referred to a 
committee; and at the next sitting, the committee reporting favor- 
ably, the meeting came to the united judgment to recommend to 
the Yearly Meeting to accept the trust conveyed by the will, and 
endeavor to carry it out according to the tenor of the will. It was 
foreseen that great labor and responsibility would attend the under- 
taking; but Friends felt as if they would not be excused in reject- 
ing a trust, so evidently intended for good to our fellow-men, and 
to extend and spread the principles and practice of Christianity. 

6th. — General boarding-school committee at eight o'clock A. M. 
Ministers and Elders Quarterly Meeting at eleven o'clock A. m. 
(larger than usual on account of so many of our friends from 
other parts, being acceptably with us,) — African committee two 
o'clock P. M. — and auxiliary Bible association at three o'clock 

7 



90 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1851. 

P. M. So the day was much occupied — and preserving help was 
experienced. 

7th. — Quarterly Meeting. A large and interesting meeting. 
Our friend, Daniel Williams, returned his certificate. The Educa- 
tion Meeting at nine o'clock A. m., was also an interesting meeting. 

10th. — My dear wife, Mary Roberts and Levi Jessup, set out 
together in one company, a part of a committee of the Yearly 
Meeting to visit the Northern Quarterly Meeting, and Honey Creek 
^Monthly Meeting, in reference to the setting up of a new Quarterly 
Meeting, to be called Concord; they having been to the Western 
Quarterly Meeting and the Monthly Meetings therein which have 
part in the request, a few weeks past. 

Our hearts have been made sad by hearing of the decease of our 
dear friend and brother, Benjamin W. Ladd, of Smithfield, Ohio, 
who departed this life at his own residence on the morning of 
Seventh-day, the 31st of the Fifth-month, 1851. We have es- 
teemed him a citizen of great integrity and virtue ; as a Christian 
in faith and practice ; and a most valuable standard bearer in the 
church. His removal from works to rewards in another world, 
is felt by many, who are left behind, to be a great public loss. 
But the Lord gave, and when he takes away, it becomes all to ac- 
knowledge the wisdom of his dispensations — and through all to 
bless his Name. 

13th. — Charles and Rhoda made a visit to Cincinnati this week. 
My dear wife being absent, and Charles and Mary also away, I have 
felt a good deal lonely. Our favorite dog, that for several years 
has been so useful, and has shown toward me an attachment so 
faithful and strong, was dead under one of our trees this morning. 
This, esteemed however small, may serve to impress upon one's 
mind, renewedly and forcibly, that the things here are transitory, and 
that our outward gifts, however much esteemed, are not to remain 
with us forever. The coming close of our own earthly pilgrimage 
may be hinted to us by the changes which take place around us. 

The above entry brings to view a trait of character for 
which Elijah Coffin was well known — his kindness to the 
brute creation and love for animals. On the occasion al- 
luded to, his children well recollect seeing him shed tears 



1851.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 91 

at the loss of his faithful and " favorite dog." It was 
equally shown in his care for a horse or cow which he 
owned. He rarely sold either. A horse which he had 
owned for many years, and which was too old to be of much 
value, he requested, at his death, to be provided with a 
home where he would be cared for and not abused. Elijah 
Coffin was a striking exemplification of the proverb, " a 
righteous man regardeth the life of his beast." 

15th. — Our First-day morning Scripture school, at Whitewater, 
keeps up well this year. We frequently have more than forty. 

21st. — My regular business has had my attention this week. 
The weather has been delightfully seasonable ; the crops generally 
look well. Air cool and bracing much of the time. 

23d. — My dear wife and her company returned home this even- 
ing. We were truly glad to meet. General good health prevails 
now in our town and neighborhood ; yet some cases of dysentery 
have occurred. 

25th. — Monthly Meeting. Our friend Benjamin Fulghum re- 
ceived the concurrence of his friends in a concern to perform a re- 
ligious visit to Center, Fairfield, and part of Miami Quarterly 
Meetings. 

28th. — Our daughter Mary arrived home from her visit to her 
sister Caroline and others in Ohio. We were well pleased to see 
her. She appears to be in quite as good or better health, as when 
she left home. 

Seventh-month 2. — Our daughter Miriam came from Cincinnati 
to remain with us awhile, hoping for improvement in her feeble 
state of health. 

5th. — Wheat harvest has been on hand this week. The crops 
are reckoned good, and the grain very fine. 

12th. — Much rain this week. Harvest has been continued. 
Good health prevails generally — yet there is complaint of diseases 
of the bowels. 

13th. — Thermometer ninty-four degrees this afternoon. 

We have heard of the decease, on the of last month, of our 

dear aged friend and relation, Elizabeth Coggeshall, of New York 
city. She has been a gifted and favored Minister of the gospel, 



92 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1851. 

aod has traveled much for the furtherance thereof. Our friend 
Benjamin Seebohm, (who was first awaked to greater religious 
thoughtfulness and dedication through her instrumentality,) and his 
companion, Robert Lindsay, attended the funeral. 

24th. — Wheat harvest is now over, and the crop is considered 
good. The crops of other grains, and the grasses, are also good. 
The season has been delightful, fully seasonable and prosperous, 
and a very good share of health prevails. There is abundant 
cause of reverent thankfulness for these favors. 

Eleventh-month 9, 1851- — My last date was Seventh-month 24, 
1851 : after the close of harvest. I may now acknowledge, and 
wish to do so, with reverent gratitude, to our gracious Benefactor, 
that in our little family, now consisting of myself, and wife, and 
our daughters, Mary and Hannah Amelia, we have been blessed 
with a good share of excellent health. A good Providence has also 
favored the inhabitants, generally, in this neighborhood, with 
health this year, with as few exceptions as is usual ; and a remark- 
ably pleasant and productive season ; I can not remember ever to 
have seen one more so in. my life. 

The village of Newport and its neighborhood were visited 
with cholera, in the Eighth-month, which carried away several to 
their future state. I note the decease, with that disease, on the 
19th of that month, of Rachel Welch, formerly Williams, and wi- 
dow of Wm. Williams, a Minister among Friends. 

Since last date, my time has been closely, and many times, labor- 
iously, taken up in performing the duties of my office, except when 
absent from it on account of domestic or religious duties' 

Our late Yearly Meeting was a very important and interesting one. 
An unusual number of weighty subjects claimed attention, and were 
disposed of in much harmony. A general feeling of brotherly good 
will prevailed : a gift and a favor, demanding our consideration and 
heartfelt gratitude. Our dear friend Cordelia Bayes, from England, 
attended ; and made her home at our house. 

Our boarding-sohool was opened with favorable prospects, on the 
week after Yearly Meeting. Ashley Johnson and Lydia, his wife, 
iiave taken the office of superintendents this year. The number of 
scholars is now over ninety, quite as many, probably more, than the 
buildings, in their present unfinished condition, will accommodate 
to that comfort and advantage which may be desired. 



1851.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 93 

The committee appointed by our late Yearly Meeting, to visit the 
Quarterly Meetings, etc. (of which I am one) have engaged in the 
service — but I have not yet joined them therein. Fairfield and Cen- 
ter have been attended ; and Miami, yesterday ; in the attendance 
of which, my dear wife is now absent from home. 

10th. — Considerable snow has fallen during yesterday and last 
night ; the weather is, otherwise* moderate. 

Our Monthly Meeting school, at Whitewater, is opened to-day 
for the winter session, with favorable prospects : John Macy, prin- 
cipal teacher. About forty in attendance. 



94 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1851 



CHAPTER V. 

Visits to Quarterly Meetings.— Tra<?t on the Marriage State.— Indiana 
Yearly Meeting. — American Bible Society.— Visit to Yearly Meeting- at 
Philadelphia. — Yellow Fever in New Orleans. — London Yearly Meet- 
ing Address on Slavery. 

My reflections this day are of a solemn character. I am now fifty - 
three years old. Year after year glides, rapidly, away ; and it is a 
very serious thought that each one, nearer, to the end of my journ- 
ney in this world. Eternity !— what a solem n thought ! "I can not 
go where universal Love smiles not around." Yet I fear that I am 
not deep enough, not sufficiently and thoroughly practical as a Chris- 
tian ; too superficial ; not possessed of enough of that enduring faith, 
that certain confidence which I can desire, assuredly, to be with me 
when the departing hour shall come. I acknowledge that I have 
hope in the Divine mercy ; and I am, sometimes, encouraged by an 
assurance of having, in my heart, the love of the brethren. may 
I grow deeper in religious experience ; may my faith and thorough 
obedience be increased. 

21st, 22d. — These days we were at New Garden, attending their 
Quarterly Meeting. Several other members of our Yearly Meeting's 
committee were in attendance. We were favored with a good meet- 
ing. 

Twelfth-month 11, 12, 13. — At Spiceland Quarterly Meeting, 
held at Walnut Ridge. It was agreeable to meet with my dear 
friends and relations, and receive their kind attention and regard ; 
but my mind was in a low, discouraged state most of the time. I 
was favored with some softness on Seventh-day, in which I could 
weep pretty profusely, which seemed to afford me some relief. In 
the midst of my distress, it would have been difficult for me to tell 
just what caused it; yet I believed it was owing to the withdrawal, 
for a season, of the comforts of the Holy Spirit from me, on 
account of my not living in more faithful and thorough obedience ; 
more completely under the kingdom and government of our Lord 
Jesus Christ, and giving evidence thereof, by my conduct, to all 



1851.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 95 

those about me; or for the purpose of showing me, in degree, 
what I should be if left to myself, without the gracious presence 
and help of the good Spirit of God in my heart, to enlighten, con- 
sole and encourage me, and to help me against temptations. I 
much wished to be at home, for which there was no opportunity ; 
and yet I had no confidence that I should feel any better, if as 
well, in case it could be so; therefore, if opportunity had offered, 
I should probably have been afraid to accept it. What lost and 
miserable intelligences indeed should we be without the Holy 
Spirit, the gift of Divine Grace ! That we receive our light and 
consolation therefrom spiritually, I can have no doubt; and a 
friend of much experience has said, in substance (very truly, I may 
believe), that it is by the same good Spirit that our sins are dis- 
covered to us, and our dark and lost condition, as in the natural 
unregenerate state, manifested. Neither can there be any doubt 
that our ability to pray acceptably and relievingly comes by the 
same precious gift; also our ability to come to true repentance, 
and to come unto God, and walk in his light and truth. Then how 
thankful should we be, how should our hearts expand with grati- 
tude and praise to the Lord Almighty, who, in his great love and 
mercy, has given us this unspeakable gift ! May I never cease to 
adore that great goodness which has thus mercifully visited our 
fallen race ! 

In going out, we stopped to dine with my brother Paul and wife, 
who received us very kindly. They both show the strong marks 
of approaching age, and that their earthly pilgrimage is drawing 
toward a close. Also staid a night with our brother and sister 
Newby, at Knightstown. Returning, we turned in and passed a 
night very agreeably with our dear friends Joseph and Rebecca 
Griffin. 

The weather has been very wintry for a few days past. 

16th. — Thermometer fifteen degrees below zero this morning. 
The mercury was not observed to rise above zero during the day. 

17th. — Another severe day. Mercury fifteen degrees and more 
below zero this morning. 

20th. — The weather has been very cold during this week. 

27th. — Another wintry week. Very busily engaged in my 
office. We have commenced the reading of evenings, in our 
family, James Bowden's History of Friends in America, in which 



96 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1852. 

we are much interested. The dreadful persecutions 'of our early 
Friends in New England stirs astonishment and sympathy. Their 
constancy to their faith and duty, even to the sacrifice of liberty 
and life, is very remarkable. 

I am also reading, at intervals, the Life and Posthumous Works 
of Richard Claridge, by Joseph Besse ; an interesting and instruc- 
tive work. , , 

I have not yet got through with James Backhouse's Narrative 
of his Visit to the Mauritius and South Africa. I have found his 
narrative very interesting and instructive as to Van Dieman's Land 
and Australia. The devotedness, labor and patience of himself 
and his companion, visiting in these newly settled countries, and 
frequently to a wretched and very degraded class of our fellow- 
men, are very striking. It does appear to me that nothing short 
of the sustaining influence of the Lloly Spirit would have given 
them courage and endurance to go through what they did. Their 
cause was the name and the love of Christ, and his salvation. 

First-month 3, 1852. — Another busy week in my office. General 
good health prevails in this neighborhood. We hear of consider- 
able damage to boats, etc., by the ice, on its being broken up and 
floating off"' in the Ohio; that river having been firmly frozen over. 
Our crops the past season were very good ; and the prices of meats 
are high ; so there is much gain this year to our people. Pork, at 
Cincinnati, $4.87; the farmers in this neighborhood have sold at 
from $4.00 to $4.33 the hundred pounds. The arrival and visit of 
the distinguished Hungarian, Louis Kossuth, is drawing much 
attention in the United States at this time. 

23d. — This winter has been remarkable for extreme cold. Since 
my last date above, the weather has been very severe. On the 
19th, the mercury fell to fifteen degrees below zero in the morning; 
ten degrees below at noon; and seventeen ^degrees below at nine 
o'clock P. M. It is said to have gone down below twenty-four 
degrees in the night. Other days have been very cold, the mercury 
being frequently below zero. Considerable snow on the ground. 
On the 10th instant, the children of our dear parents, Benajah and 
Elizabeth Hiatt, met together by request at her residence, with all 
their husbands and wives, except two of the wives; the object was 
to consult as to the future care of our mother, C. Dickinson and 
Hannah, his wife, having resigned the charge. After considerable 









1852.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 97 

consultation, it was agreed for Mordecai Hiatt and llhoda, his wife, 
to remove to the premises, and become her care-takers. 

31st. — This week has been more mild. The cold gradually 
abated, and a large part of the snow has gone off. We hear that 
the ice in the Ohio gave way on night before last. That river has 
been firmly closed with ice twice this winter. Many winters have 
passed without its being closed at all. 

On the 26th, a satisfactory meeting of the Central Book and 
Tract Committee was held. A further donation of tracts from the 
Philadelphia association was recorded. This is the second; twenty 
thousand of their tracts were sent us before. . Now, in return for 
fifty dollars sent them to buy tracts, they have sent us twenty 
thousand more. We have at this time adopted several tracts for 
publication ; four numbers having been already printed. A manu- 
script tract, prepared by myself, entitled " Brief Remarks on the 
Marriage State," was read and adopted. I may hope it may do 
good. 

Our boarding-school and our Monthly Meeting's school both 
appear to be doing well this winter. The number of scholars in 
the former, at the beginning of the present session, was probably 
too large for the present capacity of the buildings. The number 
is now smaller, yet over eighty. Our Monthly Meeting's school, 
under the care of John M. Macy, as principal teacher, is in good 
order, and progressing to good satisfaction ; number, about forty- 
five. 

Good health prevails generally in this town and neighborhood : 
some cases of influenza. 

Second-month 21. — I went to New Garden Monthly Meeting 
to-day, the attendance of which gave me satisfaction. I was in- 
terested in their proceedings. I believe there are some honest 
religious Friends here. After making visits to two places in New- 
port, I went to the house of my old friend Samuel Nixon, and 
staid the night. In 1818, we traveled together, from North Caro- 
lina to Indiana and back. A near feeling of brotherly friendship 
has existed between us ever since. This is my first acquaintance 
with his second wife. 

29th. — We have cold weather again, yet not so cold as awhile 
past. The general health has been very good during this month. 
I have been closely engaged with my ordinary vocation. Often 



98 



LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1852. 



has my mind been turned to crave Divine assistance, and the good 
help of the Holy Spirit, to keep me out of evil, and enable me to 
live the life of a Christian. Having made occasional misses for 
the want of continued watchful obedience and devotedness, much 
uneasiness and pain have been the result. But the Divine good- 
ness is to be commemorated for that I have been blessed with so 
many comforts, both spiritual and temporal. 

On the 25th, at our Monthly Meeting, the proposals of marriage 
between Eli Johnson and our daughter Mary were read and 
accepted. 

Thermometer ten degrees this morning; snow on the ground. 

We have finished the reading of James Bowden's first volume 
of the History of Friends in America, an interesting work; but 
what an account of suffering for religious principles! How difficult 
is our case as a religious Society now. We are still progressing 
with James Backhouse's Narrative of his Visit, accompanied by 
George W. Walker, to South Africa, and are much interested 
therein. 

Third-month 24. — Monthly Meeting. A favorable report being 
received, Eli Johnson and our daughter Mary were set at liberty to 
proceed in marriage together. Our friend Sarah M. Hiatt and her 
companions attended meeting acceptably to-day. 

Since my last note, on the 25th ultimo, we have been blessed 
with a good share of health in our family; a blessing which we 
ought not only to think of, but to be heartily grateful for. General 
good health has prevailed in the neighborhood. I have been very 
closely engaged in my daily occupation. The work of printing 
tracts has gone forward ; we now have out the first nine numbers 
of our series, one thousand copies each. 

Our past winter has been noted for remarkable cold. We have 
not only had the thermometer occasionally at a low degree, but the 
winter in general has been unusually cold. The thermometer was 
one day (First-month 23) ten degrees below zero at twelve o'clock 
M., a greater degree of cold, I believe, than I ever knew at any 
other time in my life, at mid-day. It is thought that much of the 
fruit is destroyed in the buds, and many of the fruit trees are 
killed. 

31st. — Fourth-day. — This has been a day of deep feeling and 
intense interest with all our family. Our dear daughter Mary was 



1852.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 99 

joined in marriage with Eli Johnson. The meeting was quiet, 
and the occasion was a solemn one. The young people spoke very 
audibly and distinctly. It has been a great satisfaction to me that 
they have shown a disposition to act advisedly in the proceedings 
of this very important engagement. A considerable company of 
Friends and acquaintances dined with us, and remained during the 
afternoon. We certainly have great occasion for thankfulness that 
the proceedings passed with so little, if any, cause of exception. 

Fourth-month 1. — The young people dined at Benjamin Strattan's 
to-day; to tea at Charles' in the evening. 

2d. — This morning, after an early breakfast, we parted with our 
dear children; they left us finally for their new home, at Corwin, 
Ohio, at which place Eli is engaged in merchandise. It is a very 
tender thing thus to part with our children. Our earnest desires 
go with them, that they may do well in every respect. 

7th. — Charles and Rhoda set off this morning to Waynesville ; 
so I am left very thronged with the cares of business. 

8th. — Received satisfactory account of the settlement of our 
children, Eli and Mary. 

12th. — The summer session of our Monthly Meeting's school 
was opened to-day — John M. Macy, teacher ; also a school, to 
which we afford encouragement, for the people of color, at their 
school-house. 

14th. — Charles and Rhoda returned. I have been very busily 
engaged during their absence, but had got along very well. 

16th. — This day we heard of the decease of our aunt Rebecca 
Unthank, wife of William B. Unthank, of Spiceland, which took 
place yesterday. They were married at the same meeting, upon 
the same day, that we were married. Being near relations and 
intimate, we feel the event sensibly. 

We hear this week of the decease of Br. George Swain, of New 
Garden, in North Carolina, at an advanced age. Being a man 
highly gifted in talents, and one with whom we were well acquainted 
in early life, his decease forcibly reminds us of the flight of years, 
and the passing away of the generations. 

18th. — First-day. — This morning at nine o'clock the First-day 
school was opened, for the summer, at Whitewater. About forty 
in attendance. 

22d. — We left home this morning, Benjamin Fulghum with 



100 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1852. 

myself and my wife, for Sand Creek, to attend Blue River Quar- 
terly Meeting, to be held there this week. Staid with brother and 
sister New by, at Knightstown, at night, 

23d. — Left Knightstown early in the cars. We were kindly 
met at Elizabethtown by some Friends, who took us to meeting. 
The Meeting of Ministers and Elders was small, but in a good 
degree comfortable. 

After the Meeting of Ministers and Eiders, we attended the 
committee on the concerns of the people of color, and after this 
the Auxiliary Bible Meeting; in both of which I was much in- 
terested. We staid at night with our kind friend Isaac Cox. 

24th. — Education Meeting at nine o'clock a. m. It was agree- 
able to see that Friends have a lively interest in this subject, w T ithin 
this Quarterly Meeting. At eleven o'clock A. M.. the Quarterly 
Meeting assembled ; it was not large, but a comfortable feeling 
attended, and favor evidently was experienced during the labors of 
the committee in the afterpart of the meeting. 

We dined at William Parker's, and returned to Isaac Cox's in 
the evening. 

25th. — First-day. — Had a favored meeting; many who are not 
members with us attended. Our friend Benjamin Fulghum, feel- 
ing a draft on his mind to appoint a religious meeting at Columbus, 
the county seat, he and Isaac Cox proceeded thither in the after- 
noon to attend it. We understood afterward that the meeting was 
satisfactory. 

26th. — Our kind friends took us to Elizabethtown, from whence 
we proceeded by railway homeward. Staid at Knightstown that 
night, and were favored to reach home comfortably on the after- 
noon of the 27th. The attendance of this Quarterly Meeting has 
been comforting and strengthening to us. 

Fifth-month 3. — Spring appears now to be fairly opened : the 
grass and small grains are coming forward, and the country begins 
to look very beautiful. 

5th. — We hear, by telegraph, that our dear friend Thomas 
Evans, of Miami, is dangerously ill. 

12th. — Our beloved friend died yesterday morning about nine 
o'clock. 

The loss of this our dear and highly valued friend will be deeply 
and widely felt. He was a man of talents ; highly esteemed in the 






1852.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 101 

community for his integrity and Christian virtue ; he was a tender, 
spirited, religious man: a Christian, sound in doctrine, and in faith 
toward our Lord Jesus Christ ; and, therefore, a man of extensive 
usefulness in the church. But he was prepared, as we hear, to depart 
in peace, and in confidence of everlasting rest, through the merits 
and mercies of the Saviour ; and this is a great consolation to us 
who are left behind, amidst our deep affliction for the loss of him. 
He has come to the end of his probation, to the end of his race; a 
point, may I remember, toward which I am hastening. It is very 
comfortable to think of the faith and love of our departed friend, 
and his hope of eternal salvation through regeneration and the gift 
of God in Christ our Saviour. 

19th — Went to Cincinnati on business — my wife went with me 
on a visit to our children there — in our carriage to Hamilton, thence 
by railroad, which is in active and successful operation from Cin- 
cinnati to Dayton. The railway from Hamilton to Eaton is so far 
advanced toward completion, as that it is expected the cars may be 
run to Eaton in the Sixth-month, 

The Indiana Central Railway, and the railway from Eaton to 
Richmond, are both in progress of construction which seems to 
promise completion at no very distant day. 

We had a sharp frost last night, which destroyed part of the 
young beans, and other tender vegetables, but we hope the fruit is 
not destroyed. Our grape-vines were mostly killed in the winter 
by the great severity of cold. 

22d. — Our First-day morning Scripture school is attended by 
about fifty children and young people ; an interesting collection. 

28th. — We have had wet seasonable weather for a few days; 
vegetation is now advancing rapidly. Received a visit from Richard 
Griffith, a young Friend who resides near Winchester, in Virginia. 

Sixth-month 3. — Meeting for Sufferings. We felt the loss of our 
dear friend Thomas Evans from the Clerk's table. At the second 
setting, our friend Yi illiam Talbert was appointed to fill the place. 
Business was conducted harmoniously. The Address on Titles, etc. 
by the Yearly Meeting of London, was directed to be re-printed. 

4th and 5th. — Quarterly and other Meetings: conducted har- 
moniously, and to satisfaction. 

21st. — We have had seasonable weather since the last date, and 
there is good prospect of fine crops. A pleasant season. A good 



102 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1852. 

share of general health prevails. Since last writing I have been 
engaged in my ordinary business in the bank, closely. 

24th. — We set off (myself and wife), in our own carriage toward 
Corwin, Ohio, with a prospect of endeavoring to attend Alum Creek 
Quarterly Meeting, to be held at Gilead. Staid at night with our 
dear children, Eli and Mary, at Corwin. 

25th. — Proceeded by railroad, our friend Thomas Wells in com- 
pany, to Cardington ; thence a friend took us to Abraham Morris'. 

26th.— Two o'clock p. M.; meeting of Ministers and Elders at 
Gilead. 

27th. — The Meeting for Worship this morning was pretty large ; 
the house was filled, and perhaps a few outside. Education com- 
mittee at three o'clock p. m., and after that the African com- 
mittee. 

28th.— Eight o'clock A. M., Bible meeting. The Quarterly Meet- 
ins: convened at eleven o'clock a. m. 

We have been comforted and edified by uniting with our beloved 
friends in these their several meetings; it has been an interesting 
time to us. It is satisfactory to believe that the state of Society 
has improved in these limits recently ; and we may hope is now in 
an improving condition. 

We returned to Corwin on the 29th, and home on the 30th. 

Seventh-month 22.- — We have had very warm weather since the 
last date; the thermometer has frequently been about ninety de- 
grees, and sometimes above. The wheat harvest is now nearly 
over — the crop is considered very good. The crops of oats and 
grass are also reckoned to be a fair average. The general health 
of our town and neighborhood may be set down as good. Thus 
Divine Providence continues to bless us. 

This week died Richard Williams, aged about ninety-eight years, 
a person whom I have known from very early life; he and my father 
being neighbors, in my younger years. His father, Richard Wil- 
liams, was one of the early settlers at New Garden, in North Caro- 
lina. 

Though blessed with pretty good health, I have been feeble in 
body for some time past; and frequently feel my weakness much. 

23d. — Thermometer ninety-three degrees at one o'clock P. M. 
Eighth-month 15. — The weather has been hot and dry since the 
last date ; so it appears as if the corn crops would be much short- 



1852.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 103 

ened in their product. The grass of the pastures is also much 
failed. 

20th. — We have had most refreshing rains. The corn fields and 
pastures will be much helped by the rain. Our boarding-school 
had been suspended by direction of the acting committee. Our 
school at Whitewater meeting-house is doing well. 

25th. — Monthly Meeting. Nathan C. Hoag and his wife arrived 
in this neighborhood yesterday. Their certificate of removal ad- 
dressed to our Monthly Meeting, was read and received to-day 
Jared Patterson and Isaac Jay also attended, each with a minute 
of unity from his Monthly Meeting. Their labors were not exten- 
sive, but appropriate and edifying. 

Ninth-month 14. — Since last date we have had rains, so as to 
make it seasonable, and advance the crops. The prospect for corn 
appears pretty fair. We hear that five dollars the hundred is of- 
fered for pork this fall. Yesterday morning, the 13th, was our 
first frost. Very little, if any, injury has been done to vegetation 
hereabout. Attending to my daily business as usual. A good 
share of health prevails through these parts. 

I have frequently felt much discouragement on account of the 
state of Society. In some places differences and divisions cause 
much confusion and distress, and bring the name of our profession 
low. In other places, even where a good degree of unity prevails, 
as to all outward appearance, I believe there is too much want of 
real practical heart changing Christianity. It has sometimes seemed 
to me as if there might be a general break up ; such may be the 
case; but I have been a good deal comforted, particularly once 
in the night, in an assurance which added strength to my faith. 
that the Lord will preserve, and keep together in the unity, a rem- 
nant devoted to his ever worthy name and cause, who sincerely be- 
lieve in and love the Lord Jesus Christ, as their Prince and their 
Saviour; my mind is to be one of that number, I pray that his love 
and mercy may help me. 

Our boarding-school has been suspended until after Yearly 
Meeting. We have a good Monthly Meeting's school, under John 
M. Macy. 

19th. — Our First-day morning school tor Scriptural instruction 
was discontinued, at the close of this morning's session, for the 
season. The school has been in a very good degree satisfactory, 



104 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1852. 

and lias been attended by an average of sixty or more this season. 
A library of about one hundred and fifty little books was procured 
in the early part of the season, for the use of the young people 
and children in attendance, and have been much read, and, as we 
may hope, to benefit. 

26th. — -The time of our Yearly Meeting now draws near ; a 
weighty consideration attends our feelings in view of its being 
held. 

27th. — Our friends, Eliza P. Gurney, Mahlon Day and Rebecca 
Collins, arrived, in order to attend the Yearly Meeting. Our dear 
children, William II. and Caroline E. Ladd, and Miriam A. Rambo, 
also came in. Weather very fine. 

28th.— Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders at ten o'clock 
A. M.; largely attended. Our friends, James Jones, Lindley M. 
Hoag and John Hutchin, of North Carolina, and the friends above 
named, were in attendance. Our friend Thomas Arnett, having 
recently returned from Europe, made return of his certificates, and 
o-ave an interesting and affecting statement of his labors and travels. 
Very solemn and satisfactory meeting. 

Meeting for Sufferings at three o'clock p.m.; satisfactory sitting. 
One tract of land for one of the schools provided for in the will of 
the late Josiah White, having been heretofore purchased near 
Salem, Iowa; report is now received that a tract on the Wabash, 
for the Indiana school, has been bargained for. 

29th. — General boarding-school committee at eight o'clock a. m. 
Reports and discussions not so satisfactory as could be wished for ; 
yet it is admitted on all hands that the school has done much 
good. 

Eleven o'clock A. M., a very solemn favored Meeting of Public 
Worship. Indian committee at three o'clock. 

30th. — Yearly Meeting for Discipline opened at ten o'clock A.M. 
A very large attendance. 

Tenth-month 5. — The Yearly Meeting came to a solemn and 
satisfactory close this afternoon. It may truly be said that we 
have been blessed together once more. Since last date, our minds 
have been deeply engaged in the important concerns which came 
up for attention. 

6th. — Most of our friends left yesterday afternoon and to-day. 
Anna Adams, who was prevented from attending the first sittings 



1852.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN.' 105 

of the Yearly Meeting by indisposition, attended afterward, and 
was at our meeting to-day. 

The railroad from Hamilton to Eaton is now in successful opera- 
tion ; so we can now go to Cincinnati much more easy than formerly, 
and in much less time. 

Eleveuth-montli 17. — This day brings with it recollections and 
reflections of the most serious character. Another year is now 
added to the years I have lived; I am now fifty -four years of age. 
0, the rapid flight of time and eternity! never-ending eternity! 
Time will soon pass, and eternity will follow. Lord ! I pray 
for the forgiveness of every sin, the wiping out of every blot. 
" Create in me a clean heart, and renew a right spirit within me.' 1 
0! increase my faith, and help me to increase and abound in my 
love to thee and to my fellow-men ; enable me to be more and 
more grateful for thy unspeakable love, condescension and mercy, 
through my ever blessed Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, in that 
thou still visitest me with thy Holy Spirit, thy love, thy mercy, 
and thy blessings, spiritual and temporal. 0! help me in my 
many weaknesses, keep me from temptation, and deliver me from 
evil, as in thy great goodness thou mayest see meet. Help me to 
feel effectually that the holy name of the Lord is ever worthy of 
eternal adoration! 

Since last date, I have been mostly at home, engaged in my 
ordinary calling, and enjoying a good share of health. For all our 
blessings may I be grateful ! 

We have recently had considerable rain, and weather cool, but 
not severely cold. The coldest morning yet this fall was that of 
the 16th, when the thermometer was down to twenty-four degrees. 

Our boarding-school has been put into operation, by the new 
committee, for the winter season — Isaac and Dinah Gardner super- 
intendents, and William Haughton principal teacher in the male 
department. 

John M. Macy has commenced his winter session of our Monthly 
Meeting's school at Whitewater, with favorable prospects. 

Twelfth -month 18. — Seventh-day. — On this day, about twelve 
o'clock M., our sister Phebe Coffin, widow of brother Zaccharias, 
deceased. Her close was peaceful. 

Continued good health in our little family, since last date, has 
8 



106 LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. [1853. 

been enjoyed. Our sincere gratefulness to the great Ruler of all 
things should also continue. 

4 This winter season, so far, has been much milder, or with less 
severe cold, than the usual average. 

We have finished reading the three volumes of Murdock's Trans- 
lation of Mosheim's Church History. I have felt myself enter- 
tained and improved by the present hearing of this work. Parts of 
it I would like to review. 

23d and 24th. — It has rained most profusely, and for many 
hours together, insomuch that there is a very great freshet. The 
waters in the streams are higher than they have been for several 
years. 

25th. — The day set apart by the Latin and other churches to 
celebrate the birth of our blessed Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. 
I hope ever to think, with the most profound adoration, of his 
coming into the world to save sinners, and to bless our fallen race. 

We hear of great damages by the high water ; many bridges 
are injured, and some carried off; the railroads are injured, and 
their use temporarily suspended ; and the Whitewater Canal is so 
greatly injured, that its being again repaired for use appears some- 
what doubtful. Telegraph communication here is also temporarily 
cut off. 

We are engaged in reading in our family, at the breakfast table, 
the prophet Jeremiah, and a portion of the Psalms, each day; of 
evenings we are reading Nevin's Biblical Antiquities, a valuable 
and interesting work ; we have also read some of the tracts of the 
American Tract Association. 

My mind has been engaged of late in considering the propriety 
of undertaking to compile a little book of Scripture questions on 
the gospel of Matthew, for the use of families and schools. 

First-mouth 17. — Our brother Micah Newby was removed by 
death on this day, at near three o'clock p. m. We have cause for 
deep sympathy with our dear sister in her affliction. The sickness 
of our grandson Charles Henry seems to render it improper that 
we should undertake to attend the funeral. 

18th. — I wrote a letter of sympathy to my dear sister. 
2i s t. — I have long had it on my mind to become a life member 
of the American Bible Society, for the purpose of bearing testi- 
mony to my cordial approbation of the objects of that society, and 



1853.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 107 

of contributing, though little, in this manner to the work in which 
it is engaged. I concluded, therefore, to delay no longer in doing 
that which I have so long thought of doing, and think I shall not 
feel satisfaction in the omission of it. I accordingly addressed the 
following letter to the general agent and assistant treasurer : 

Richmond, Indiana, First-month 21, 1853. 
Joseph Hyde, 

Gen. Agent and Asst. Treas. American Bible Society. 

Respected Friend: For the purpose of contributing, in a small 
degree, to' the universal diffusion, reading and believing of the Holy 
Scriptures, and bearing testimony of my approbation of that excel- 
lent work, by recording my name among those engaged in it, I of- 
fer, inclosed herein, my check on New York for thirty dollars ($30), 
to constitute myself a life member of the American Bible Society. 

I have, for a long time past, been actively engaged, in a small way, 
in a Bible association, to promote the diffusion and reading of the 
Holy Scriptures; but cordially approving the objects of the Ameri- 
can Bible Society, as set out in the first article of its constitution, 
I wish, in this manner, to give practical evidence of that approba- 
tion. 

Please to acknowledge receipt of the draft, adding any remarks 
thou mayest desire. Respectfully, 

Elijah Coffin. 

Ah extract from a letter addressed to the family of 
Elijah Coffin from the American Bible Society, and received 
soon after his decease, will be perused with interest by the 
various branches of his family, as commemorative of the 
esteem with which the society regarded its coadjutor. 

American Bible Society, Bible House, Astor Place, | 
New York, February 3, 1862. [ 
C. F. COFPIN, 

Richmond, Indiana. 
Respected Friend : * * * H« « We receive information 
of the death of your much respected and lamented father, Elijah 
Coffin, who we had the gratification of seeing here and knowing, 



108 LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. [1853. 

personally, and whose Christian character will be remembered, as it 
is truly appreciated by us. The short time he spent here enabled 
him to see the active operations of this society, in whose labors of 
love he was a hearty and earnest co-operator, recommending the 
word, which was his guide, not only with his lips but in his life. 

We were not prepared for this mournful intelligence, having had 
no knowledge of his previous illness, but it ought to be a warning 
to us all " to do what our hands find to do, with our might," as we 
know not when we may be called away — and when our time does 
arrive, may we, like your beloved father, die in full faith of a glo- 
rious immortality through Jesus Christ our Lord. His family and 
friends have our warm sympathy under the bereavement. His suc- 
cessor will, we hope, like your honored father, prove a warm and 
efficient friend and coadjutor in our good cause." ***** 

His labors in the auxiliary to the American Bible Society 
at Richmond, Indiana, are referred to in the following reso- 
lution, which was passed at its next meeting after he had 
quitted the scene of his earthly labors. 

" Resolved-— That in the recent death of Elijah Coffin, a member 
of this society, a life member of the American Bible Society, and 
an officer of the Indiana Bible Association of Friends, we feel that 
our cause has lost one of its most efficient helpers ; and by that 
death we feel called upon to repair that loss as well as we may, by 
emulating his bright example. Adopted." 

After much mild, gloomy, and considerable rainy weather, we 
now have it beautifully clear. On the morning of the 19th the ther- 
mometer stood at ten degrees above zero, which is much the coldest 
of this winter, so far. 

We have finished reading Nevin's Biblical Antiquities; and are 
now engaged of evenings in reading the Maccabees, so as to get a 
more perfect knowledge of the history, etc., of the Jews in the times- 
from Malachi to the Christian era. 

24th. — To-day we have the ground covered with snow, which is 
t-he first time for this winter. The weather is not very severely 
cold. 

26th.— Thermometer three de ees ab« >e zero .his morning. 



1853.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 109 

Decidedly the coldest of the season, so far. General good health 
prevails. 

The year 1852 may be reckoned a year of remarkable prosperity 
In the country. The crops produced by the land were generally 
pretty good, so that the surplus in this country, over what is re- 
quired for home consumption, is very great; and the prices for it 
unusually high. Added to which, good health has prevailed gene- 
rally. The prices are considered to be influenced by the great in- 
flux of gold from California ; by the great number and amount of 
public works now in progress, and other causes. I believe that 
money was never so abundant in this country before. The causes 
for reverent gratefulness and devotedness of heart to the great and 
good Giver, from whom every blessing comes, surely appear largely 
on every hand. May the nation thank the name of the Lord, and 
learn to serve him more uprightly. 

Second-month 6. — A great snow. We very seldom see so much 
at one time. 

My health is injured by over exertion and fatigue in the duties 
of my office the past week; the effect is extremely depressing upon 
my mind. This is a time of darkness and distress, of gloom and 
discouragement. It would seem as if all good had departed from 
me. It being First-day, Wilson Carter attended meeting, and had 
requested general notice to be given.; such is my low state of 
mind and illness in body that I remained pretty much within 
doors, and did not attend meeting. 

In the afternoon, had an acceptable visit from Wilson Carter and 
his companion; which somewhat refreshed me. 

7th. — Better; but still under a low feeling. 

8th. — Weather very fine and refreshing. Thermometer four de- 
grees beloiv zero this morning. My health is decidedly improved. 
I feel very little ability for successful prayer yet. But I look to 
Jesus, whom I find I still love, and must rely upon his mercy and 
kindness for deliverance and salvation. 

9th. — Thermometer twelve degress below zero thk morning, 
ISnow still on the ground, very little melted. Weather very fine, 
I had a refreshing night's sleep last night — my health is nearly re- 
covered; spiritually, I am still lean, yet less in gloom. 

Third-month 18. — This day is to be noted for the opening of 
railroad communication from Dayton to Richmond. The workmen 



110 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [185& 

reached the latter this day, in laying the iron track, and the whistle 
of the locomotive sounded through the air. The railway from 
Eaton to Richmond is in a state of forwardness, but not yet com- 
pleted. 

The winter session of our Monthly Meeting's school, John M. 
Macy, teacher, closed to-day. 

This being the time of Quarterly Meeting at Elk (Westfield Q. 
M.), my wife and self attended the select and other meetings. My 
feelings depressed some of the time. 

19th. — Westfield Quarterly Meeting at Elk. I rose this morn- 
ing under feelings of great depression, my health being feeble, and 
my sense of unworthiness indescribable. I have no doubt that I 
fell into error in my great weakness, and said something which I 
had better not. After some outward refreshments and rest, I felt 
much better, so that I enjoyed the Quarterly Meeting in a good de- 
gree, and joined the few members of the Yearly Meeting's commit- 
tee in attendance, in considerable communication, in which a favor 
attended me, and I felt much better afterward. 

Fourth-month 1. — -We have fine mild weather, the ground be- 
coming dry, and the grass showing itself. We are planting some 
garden seeds. 

I am engaged in compiling a little book of Scripture questions 
on the book of Matthew, designed to assist parents and teachers in 
giving Scriptural instruction. 

A part of the committee of conference continued by our last 
Yearly Meeting have a prospect of attending the approaching Yearly 
Meeting in Philadelphia. This is felt to be a weighty engagement. 

The railway from Eaton to this place is progressing rapidly to- 
ward completion. Part of the iron track is laid this side of our 
State line. 

We had an acceptable visit from our dear children Eli and Mary 
C. Johnson, in the fore part of this week. Our dear Mary's health 
is poor ; we feel much anxiety about her. 

12th. — -My friend Joseph Cox having come thus far on his way,, 
we set off about twelve o'clock, expecting to be joined by John 
Hadley, jr., on the railroad above Cincinnati, with a view for us to 
proceed on to Philadelphia, to attend the Yearly Meeting of Friends 
in that city, as a delegation from the committee of conference ap- 
pointed by our Yearly Meeting. We staid at Cincinnati all night 



1853.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. Ill 

13th. — Went forward. John Hadley, jr., joined us at Corwin. 
To Columbus to dinner; to Cleveland to supper ; then forward to 
Pittsburg, at which place we arrived about three o'clock A. M. the 
14th. 

14th. — After some rest in the morning we proceeded by the 
Pennsylvania railroad. Having crossed the mountains, we stopped 
at the Mountain House to rest. 

| 15th. — Reached Philadelphia by the way of Harrisburg and 
Lancaster at about eleven o'clock p. M. Were kindly taken in 
by our esteemed friend Thomas Kimber, at whose house Joseph 
and I staid duringthe Yearly Meeting. John went to M. C. 
Cope's. 

16th — Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders, in Philadelphia. 
We called upon our beloved friend Thomas Evans, before meeting, 
who kindly showed us the way. In the time of worship, before bu- 
siness was taken up, our friends, Cordelia Bayes and Anna Thorn- 
burgh had some service, which appeared to me to be in place. Af- 
ter the opening proceedings, the certificates and minutes of Friends, 
from other Yearly Meetings, now in attendance, were read. Cordelia 
Bayes, from England, Silas Downing, Henry E. Knowles, and 
Charles Taber, from within the limits of the Yearly Meeting of New 
York ; Anna Thornburgh, Jemima Burson, and Sarah M. Hiatt, 
from Indiana Yearly Meeting ; and Rebecca Michener from Ohio, 
were in attendance. Ephriam Morgan, an Elder, from Cincinnati, 
attended the next sitting. The Friends, named above, each, had com- 
panions. At a suitable time, Cordelia Bayes informed the meeting 
that she had no prospect of attending another Yearly Meeting in 
Philadelphia, and a committee was thereupon appointed to prepare, 
if way should open a certificate for her. The meeting, after having 
proceeded about as far as usual in its business, adjourned. 

17th. — First-day. — Attended Twelfth-street meeting, at ten 
o'clock. Dined with Isaac and Rebecca Collins. Attended Orange 
street meeting, at four P. M. 

18th. — The Yearly Meeting convened at the Arch-street House, 
at ten o'clock. After the usual preliminary proceedings, the certi- 
ficates and minutes were read including our extract, which we had 
handed up. Then the American Epistles, beginning with New York, 
and excepting New England ; then Dublin, London, and, lastly, the 
London General Epistle. Some discussion took place, as to read- 



112 LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. [1853. 

ing the epistle from New England, and while it was plain, that some 
desired it might be read, and correpondence resumed, the disposi- 
tion of the meeting was against it. 

After the discussion was closed, and the meeting was about to ad- 
journ, we thought it our duty to take the floor, and urge in a can- 
did, but modest and affectionate manner, the uneasiness which the 
position of that Yearly Meeting was giving to the Friends in other 
parts, and to press, closely home, to their very serious consideration, 
the duty, which might belong to them, in doing their part, toward 
a reconciliation in Society. All three of us joined in our earnest 
appeal to them. We were listened to, in our short address, in a si- 
lent and attentive manner ; and, soon after we closed, the meeting 
adjourned. 

In the afternoon sitting, the minutes of the Meeting for Sufferings, 
were read. 

19th. — Third-day. — Two sittings. State of Society. Report of 
Westtown boarding-school. That school appears to be in a prosper- 
ous condition. 

20th. — Meeting of Ministers and Elders at eight A. m. A cer- 
tificate for our friend Cordelia Bayes was adopted. The meeting 
got through its business and concluded. 

Yearly Meeting at eleven. An address to the members of the 
Yearly Meeting, prepared by the Meeting for Sufferings, was brought 
in, read, considered and adopted. In the afternoon sitting, 
the report on Indian concerns was read. 

21st — Meetings for Worship, in the morning. In the afternoon, 
the education report was read. One thousand four hundred and 
twenty three children, of a suitable age to go to school, are report- 
ed. Afterward, the report on the use of spiritous liquors. It ap- 
pears that a few of the members are still in the practice of using 
this article as a drink. 

22&.— Sixth-day.— Epistles to the American Yearly Meetings, 
(except New England,) and to London and Dublin, were read and 
adopted. The meeting afterward came to a conclusion, at about 
one o'clock P. M. — We dined with Townsend Sharpless, then I part^ 
ed with my companions, Joseph Cox and John Hadley, jun., who re- 
mained, with the prospect of attending the conference at Baltimore, 
on the ninth of next month, and proceeded with my friend, David 



[1853. LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 113 

Sands by railroad across New Jersey to New York, which place 
we reached about sunset. 

23d. — Passed the day in the city of New York. In the 
morning, with my dear friend Mahlon Day, visited the reser- 
voir of the Croton water, in the upper part of the city. From the 
top of the wall of the reservoir, we could see the ''Crystal Palace," 
just being erected for the "World's Fair," and not yet finished. A 
great prospect of the city and suburbs was, also, here before us. 
I was highly entertained with the view of the substantial and ex- 
cellent reservoir and the interesting prospect around. The "Color- 
ed Orphan Institute '' being very near, we obtained admittance, 
through my kind friend, and I was highly gratified with what I saw 
of the Institute and its inmates. We returned thence to the lower 
part of the city; and after visiting some of the business houses, 
I went, with the same kind friend, to see the "Arctic," one of the 
American Ocean 'steam-ships, which we were permitted to pass 
through. We visited, also, the Bible House of the American Bi- 
ble Society, and the Tract House of the American Tract Society. 
To dinner with Mahlon Day, and to David Sands' at night. 

24th. — First-day. — Attended both morning and afternoon meet- 
ing. Took dinner to-day with William Cromwell, where we had 
the company of our dear aged friend, Bichard Mott ; also of Wil- 
liam Wood and Mary his wife. In the evening, had the acceptable 
company of Henry and Grace Dickinson, M. F. Mott, Mary Mur- 
ray, Anna Shotwell and others, at our friend David Sands'. 

25th. — Second-day morning. — Left New York, at seven A. M. 
by the Erie railroad, bound for home. 

We passed through much interesting country scenery, upon our 
long route to-day, and arrived at Dunkirk, at about half-past 
twelve at night. Proceeding onward upon the lake shore, we 
came to Cleveland about eight a.m., the 26th ; then, leaving at 
nine A. M., in the cars of the Cleveland and Columbus railroad, I 
went forward to Eli Johnson's, at Corwin, where I stopped with 
our children at seven p. m. Next day, I went home, via Cincin- 
nati. My health has been remarkably preserved during the whole 
of this long journey, which has been in everyway prosperous as 
to traveling with speed and comfort : and now, finding my dear 
family well, there is abundant cause of renewed gratefulness to Him 
from whom all good comes. 



114 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 1853.] 

Seventh-month 13. Since the foregoing date niy book of notes 
has been lying by without addition. And now, looking back, I 
see that between two and three months of time is soon gone. 

During this season, so far, we have been remarkably blessed as to 
health in our dear family ; and health has prevailed in the town 
and neighborhood generally — the grateful remembrance whereof 
should be often present. 

I have been steadily engaged in my daily occupation, as an of- 
ficer in the state bank ; A. C. Blanchard still being the president 
of our branch, and Charles F. Coffin, the teller and clerk. 

Another institution has been set up, called the "Citizens' Bank," 
in which, Robert Morrison, A. C. Blanchard, and C. F. Coffin are 
the partners. 

I have finished writing my little book of "Scripture Exercises on 
the Gospel according to St. Matthew," and the same is now in the 
hands of stereotypcrs. I am making some progress in another, 
on the Gospel according to St. Mark. These give me much labor 
and attention ; but it proves to have an edifying and supporting 
tendency on the mind. 

The railway hence to Eaton and Hamilton via Cincinnati, is in 
successful operation. Passenger trains are dispatched and arrive 
daily. The Indiana Central Railway is in successful operation to 
Centerville. The work west of Centerville is progressing rapidly. 
Passenger trains go once, and back to Dayton, daily. 

The present season was pleasant, in the fore part, with sufficient 
rain for the crops. A little later it was considerably dry in some 
places. Wheat and hay are yielded in fair average ; the oats is 
said to be pretty good — and corn looks well. There is. also, a pros- 
pect of plenty of fruits. 

The weather has been extremely warm during a part of this 
month ; the thermometer, at its highest, ninety-two to ninety-four 
degrees, but it is now more pleasant. 

Seventh-month 27. — -Monthly Meeting. A memorial of our de- 
parted friend Jeremiah Hubbard, was read to-day, and referred to 
a committee for some emendation, if found necessary. 

We have had a fine rain, within a few days past. 

Eiyhth-month 25. — Fifth-day. — My wife and self have been en- 
gaged, since last Seventh-day, with several other member's of the 
Yearly Meeting's committee, in attending the Monthly Meetings 



[1853. LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 115 

belonging to New Garden Quarter. The service, on our part, has 
been attended to under much physical weakness, and, at times, of 
mental depression ; but, notwithstanding, it has afforded us satis- 
faction. We came home from Dover to-day. The other mem- 
bers who have been out with us propose attending the Quarterly 
Meeting. 

28th. — For a few evenings past a beautiful comet, has been vis- 
ible in the western part of the heavens, near the horizon. Its 
tail extends pretty directly upward, seven or eight degrees. 

29th. — Our friends, Daniel Barker and Lydia his wife, from 
North Carolina, traveling on a religious visit, staid with us last 
night. They left this morning by railway for Ohio Yearly 
Meeting. 

Ninth-month 1. — There is an awful visitation of yellow-fever at 
New Orleans. About two hundred die daily. 

27th. — Our Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders convened at 
ten this morning. We had. acceptably with us in attendance 
Susan R. Smith, of Burlington, New Jersey ; Susan Howland, from 
New Bedford, Mass. : and her companions Nathan Breed, and Mary 
his wife, from Lynn, Mass. ; Daniel Barker, and Lydia, his wife, 
from North Carolina ; Nathan Douglas, and Wm. B. Thomson, both 
from Maine. We had a favored meeting. 

At three, P. M., our Meeting for Sufferings was held. 

28th. — Public Meeting at eleven. Indian committee, at three 
P. M. Central Book and Tract, at six P. M. All pretty largely 
attended. 

29th. — Y T early Meeting convened to-day at ten. Continued by 
adjournments until Third-day, Tenth-month 4th. The meeting was 
largely attended ; yet not so largely, perhaps, as on some former 
occasions. The business was conducted throughout in much good 
feeling and brotherly fellowship. A memorial on the subject of tem- 
perance, addressed to the Legislatures of Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, 
and Iowa, was adopted with much unity. The meeting succeeded, 
before its close, in making up by subscription in the body of the 
meeting, the balance wanting to complete the sum ef sixteen thou- 
sand dollars, for finishing the boarding-school buildings. So it ap- 
pears that work, which has been so long lying in an unfinished state, 
may now be prosecuted to completion. A committee was set apart 
on revision of Discipline, with reference to printing a new edition. 



116 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 1853.] 

My little book of ''Scripture Exercises," on the Gospel according 
to St. Matthew, is now finished and printed, and offered for sale. 

I have made some progress with the book of St. Mark. 

We have very fine weather this fall ; — the crops are generally 
good ; and fruit, plentiful. General good health prevails. The 
yellow fever at New Orleans, which has raged so awfully, has sub- 
sided, and the scourge appears to be passing off. Over eight thou- 
sand have died, from Fifth-month 28, to Tenth-month 1. 

Our dear friend, David Miles, was so badly stunned and wound- 
ed by a fall from the west end of the railway bridge, on Second- 
day evening, Tenth-month 3, as he was passing on toward Levi Jes- 
sup's, that he died on the next day. 

Tenth-month 8. — Seventh- day . — The Central Indiana Railway is 
opened this day, through to Indianapolis ; the first trip was made 
with the cars to-day through from Dayton to Indianapolis. 

21st. — Sixth-day. — The Yearly Meeting of Friends, in London, 
having caused their address against slavery and the slave trade to 
be presented, through their deputations set apart for that purpose, 
to many of the governments of Europe ; also to the government of 
Brazil, in South America ; their present deputation consisting of 
Josiah Forster, William Forster, John Candler, and Wm. Holmes, 
have proceeded to the United States, to present the Address to our 
general government, at Washington City ; and, also, to the state go- 
vernments, severally, as they, in the progress of their work, may 
see it proper. They have been to Washington City and presented 
their address to the President ; since that, they have presented it 
to the govornors of Virginia, Ohio and Kentucky; and on their way 
to Indianapolis, to present it to the governor of Indiana, they arrived 
at Richmond, from Cincinnati, this evening. Josiah Forster and 
John Candler, made their home at my house, and William Forster 
and William Holmes, at Charles'. 

22d. — The four Friends visited some of their acquaintances. 

23d. — They attended our meeting at Whitewater. John Candler 
and William Forster spoke in the ministry acceptably. 

24th. — Our friends visited the boarding-school, and, also, some 
families of their acquaintance. 

25th — They set off, at eight A. M., in the cars, to Indianapolis, to 
seek an interview with Governor Joseph A. Wright. 



[1853. LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 117 



CHAPTER VI. 

Passage of Nebraska Bill. — Journey to Eastern Cities. — Yearly Meeting 
at Newport, R. I. — Return Home. — Indiana Ybarly Meeting. — Visit to 
the West. — N. C. Hoag and Wm. Hobbs. — Prayer. — Visit to North Carolina. 

Eleventh-month 17. — This day brings with it very serious reflec- 
tions. I am fifty-five years old to-day. 

We hear that our friends were received and treated very civilly 
by our governor. 

Twelfth-month 3. — This is our Quarterly Meeting time. The 
meeting has been attended, and we have had a good meeting. Jar- 
ed Patterson, Francis W. Thomas and Samuel Bonine, were in at- 
tendance, with minutes from their meetings. 

The fall and early part of the winter have been very mild and 
agreeable. We have had no severe cold yet, and scarcely any snow. 
Health is very good ; the products of the country, plentiful, and 
the prices good. 

War is commenced between Turkey and Russia. 

5th. — Went to Indianapolis this day by the Central Railway : the 
cars have been going for some time past, but this is my first trip. 
Quick, to what it used to be on horseback, or by stage-coach. We 
were upon the road nearly four hours. 

20th. — This morning the thermometer was down to two degrees 
below zero. There is a little snow on the ground. 

23d — Severely cold. A piercing wind from the west, during the 
day. Thermometer in the evening, four degrees above zero, and 
in the morning of 24th, three degrees above zero. 

24th. — Yery fine, but cold. 

First-month 20, 1854. — -This morning, my beloved brother, Paul 
Coffin, died, at a little past seven o'clock; aged sixty-nine years and 
about ten months. He had been much afflicted, for several years 
with neuralgia ; and this disease, settling upon his bowels and vita 
parts with increased symptoms, was considered to be the cause of 
hi.-, death. The event was not unexpected to him. He had caused 
hi.- outward affairs to be settled and adjuster!, and his mind had, it 



118 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1854. 

is believed, become fully resigned to the expected change. Ho 
hoped and believed that he had obtained peace with God, and his 
end was quiet, and appeared to be perfectly peaceful. He had ex- 
pressed some feeling, when conversing with his wife previously to 
his decease, at the thought of leaving her behind, they having lived to- 
gether deeply attached in marriage union, for more than forty years. 

21st. — -Seventh -day. —I received the notice, this morning, of the 
decease of my dear brother ; and made haste to reach their dwell- 
ing before the appointed hour in the afternoon for the burial. The 
day was extremely cold : but a very respectable, quiet, and kind 
company were in attendance, and rendered all necessary assist- 
ance in the solemn and last service of committing the remains to 
the grave. 

22d. — Attended Friends' Meeting at Bethel to-day. The night 
very severely cold. 

23d. — Thermometer twelve degress below zero, this morning. 

By a letter dated the 27th ultimo, at Nashville, Tennessee, writ- 
ten by our beloved friend Josiah Forster, we are informed that the 
four Friends, constituting the deputation from the Yearly Meeting 
of London to present their address on the slave trade and slavery 5 
proceeded on their journey from Indianapolis to Illinois ; from Illi- 
nois to Wisconsin; from Wisconsin to Missouri ; from Missouri, far 
down the Mississippi River, to Louisiana ; from Louisiana to Mis- 
sissippi; from Mississippi to Alabama; from Alabama to Georgia; 
from Georgia to South Carolina; from South Carolina to Tennessee, 
where they were on the 27th ultimo. Josiah writes that all the 
governors whom they had been with, had listened kindly and re- 
spectfully to them. 

By a note from Josiah Forster, written on the 11th and 12th in- 
stant, postmarked at Campbell's Station, Tennessee, we are informed 
that William Forster was seized with serious illness on the 4th in- 
stant, and that the party were stopped on account thereof at a place 
near the Holstein, about eight miles from Newberry Meeting of 
Friends. 

Second-month 10. — By a note received from Josiah Forster, we 
have the sad and affecting intelligence of the decease, at the 
place last named, of our dear and valued friend William Forster, 
on Sixth-day the 27th of last month ; and of his burial at Friends- 
ville (Newberry), on the 29th. His loss will be deeply felt through- 



1854.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIlf. 119 

out our religious Society in England and America. The other mem- 
bers of the party proceed onward toward North Carolina. 

21st. — We have had changeable weather, but very little of a 
severe degree of cold. The price of flour at Cincinnati rose to 
seven dollars the barrel, a little while past; but has receded to about 
six dollars seventy-five cents. 

22d. — xMonthly Meeting. My dear wife obtained the concurrence 
of the meeting to visit the families of West Grove Monthly Meet- 
ing, in the love of the truth. 

Third-month 11#— My dear wife set off this morning, having 
Jonathan and Mary Roberts for companions, to West Grove 
Monthly Meeting, to be held to-day; expecting to proceed with her 
visit after meeting. 

17th. — My dear wife returned home, having performed her visit 
to the families, to the relief of her mind. 

The weather, for some time past, has been remarkable pleasant, 

Fifih-montli 24th. — We were exceedingly grieved this morning 
with the intelligence that the Congress of the United States has 
passed what is termed the " Nebraska Bill," which opens the way 
for the admission of slavery into the new territories of vast extent, 
if the settlers there should so elect. 

My wife and self having for some time past entertained the pros- 
pect of a journey eastward, as far as New England, and having a 
desire, that if Providence should afford us ability, to attend the 
next Yearly Meeting of Friends in Rhode Island, if our Friends at 
home should unite with it, our case was opened to them at our 
Monthly Meeting to-day, and submitted to their consideration. 
The meeting freely uniting therewith, a minute was made accord- 
ingly. 

31st. — A committee appointed by our last Yearly Meeting to 
take into consideration our present Discipline, and propose to next 
Yearly Meeting such emendations and alterations as may appear to 
them proper to be made before printing a new edition, met this 
afternoon, and made considerable progress. 

Sixth-month 1 to 3. — Our Meeting for Sufferings and Quarterly 
Meeting were held. The Discipline committee having passed through 
the book, and agreed on sundry emendations, and some alterations, 
referred the care of arranging them to a sub-committee. 

5th. — Second-day. — We set out this morning at nine o'clock A. 



120 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1^54. 

M. on our eastern journey. Our daughter, Hannah Amelia, also 
set off at the same time, on a visit to her brother and sister Ladd 
via Cincinnati, and thence, up the Ohio river to Steubenville. 
I and my dear wife proceeded directly to Dayton, thence to 
Sandusky, thence by lake shore railroad to Cleveland, where 
we found the splendid steamer "St. Lawrence" waiting for our 
cars. We went aboard at about eight o'clock P. m., and the 
boat was moved off immediately for Buffalo. We passed a comfort- 
able night on the boat, in her progress across lake Erie, and arrived 
at Buffalo next morning at about seven o'clocl^A. m. 

6th. — At nine o'clock we took the cars for Niagara Falls, where 
we passed the day. At this wonderful place, there is much to in- 
terest and entertain the thoughtful mind. The awful grandeur and 
sublimity of the scene, afford matter for deep reflection. My dear 
wife had not seen this great curiosity before: to me, the sublime 
scene and ceaseless roar seemed entirely familiar, the impressions 
made on my mind in 1851, having been so deep and vivid. We 
returned to Buffalo in the evening. 

7th. — Proceeded from Buffalo, by the New York Central Bail- 
road to Albany, where we stopped. 

gth. — Enjoyed a walk about Albany this morning; visited the 
public grounds about the State-house ; ascended to the top of the 
State-house, where we had a fine and interesting view of the city 
and neighborhood ; then returning to our hotel, soon set off for 
Boston. 

We were interested in the country, and the various towns through 
which we passed on our way. Dined at Springfield ; and arrived 
at Boston about five o'clock p. m. We made but little stay here, 
proceeded forwarded pretty soon to Lynn, at which place we were 
kindly entertained by our beloved friends Samuel Boyce and Eliza 
his wife. 

9th. — Our friend Samuel Boyce most kindly took us to Nahant, 
which was an interesting ride, and afforded my dear wife the oppor- 
tunity of seeing, for the first time, the great ocean. Returning, we 
dined with our friends Nathan and Mary Breed, and then set out 
for Newport, by the way of Boston and Fall River. We spent, per- 
haps, an hour in Boston, most of the time in a hack, by which we 
were enabled to see considerable of the city. We arrived at New- 
port in ttie evening, and stoppeo with our friend Mary Williams, 



1854.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 121 

at whose house we had an agreeable home during our stay at New- 
port. 

10th. — The Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders began at 
nine o'clock, which we attended — and afterward another sitting in 
the afternoon. The accounts rendered by Lindley M. Hoag, in 
writing, and by Eli and Sybil Jones, verbally, and the certificates 
and documents by them produced, relative to their visit to Europe, 
and of the latter to Africa and Europe, were deeply interesting 
and moving. The account of Friends in Norway is very remark- 
able. 

At five o'clock p. m., the Meeting for Sufferings was held, which 
I attended. 

11th. — First-day. — Two *neetings ; both large and orderly. 

12th.' — Second-day. — Yearly Meeting convened at nine o'clock 
A. M. Then another sitting was held in the afternoon. It has been 
estimated that about seven hundred and fifty persons attend these 
Meetings for Discipline. I should think the number was under, 
rather than over that, this year. 

The Yearly Meeting continued from day to day, until Sixth-day, 
the 16th, when it closed. 

It has been very satisfactory to us to attend this Yearly Meeting. 
We have felt much unity and fellowship with our friends, and have 
been received and treated by them with great cordiality. 

On Sixth-day afternoon we went to Fall River ; home with our 
beloved friends Jacob and Lucy Vining. Next day visited several 
of the manufacturing establishments, and dined with our friends 
Elizabeth Shove and daughter. After visiting the linen mill in the 
afternoon, we went to New Bedford. 

18th. — First-day.- — I was sick last night, and not able to go to the 
forenoon meeting. We have a pleasant home with our dear friend 
Susan Howland. In the afternoon attended First-day school, con- 
ducted by Henry T. Wood and others ; afterward meeting. Then 
took tea with Matthew Howland and his amiable wife, who is the 
daughter of Susan R. Smith, who also was present, much to our 
satisfaction. 

19th. — Visited a whale ship by the kind assistance of Cornelius 
Howland ; rode around New Bedford for a short time ; made a short 
call at our beloved friend Wm. C. Taber's; then, at ten o'clock a. 
m., left in the cars for Providence. 
9 



122 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1854. 

20th. — Staid last night with our beloved friends John and Eliza- 
beth Header, after having taken supper with our beloved friends 
Samuel Boyd Tobey and Sarah B., his wife, and their family. To- 
day we visited the boarding-school, in which we were much inter- 
ested. We had the company of our friends Elizabeth Meader and 
Sarah B. Tobey, and afterward of Dr. S. B. Tobey. Returned to 
John Meader's, and rested until after tea in the evening ; then took 
the railroad cars for Stonington, on our way to New York. We 
arrived at Stonington at about three P. m., and went at once aboard 
of the steamer for New York. The day had been hot ; it was, 
therefore, agreeable to find the air of the sound so pleasant and re- 
freshing as it was. 

21st. — Arrived safely in New York early, and went to the house 
of our friend David Sands, to breakfast. We attended Friends' 
meeting in New York, and in the afternoon visited the great steam- 
ship " Pacific," the Colored Orphan Asylum and the Crystal 
Palace. We returned to David Sands', and passed a pleasant even- 
ing with several friends who came in. 

22d. — Left New York at nine o'clock A. m., by railroad, across 
New Jersey, for Philadelphia, at which place we arrived about one 
o'clock P. M. We staid with our friend Isaac Collins. Took sup- 
per with A. M. Kimber and wife, where we had the company of 
Enoch Lewis and some others. Called for a few minutes in the 
afternoon, to see our beloved friends Thomas Evans and wife. 

23d. — Left at seven o'clock a. m. for Pittsburg, by the central 
Pennsylvania route. This is a very interesting route to travel. 
We pass through a finely -improved country until we come to the 
mountains ; then the ascent to cross the mountains, the tunnel and 
the fine prospects connected with the route in various places, can 
not fail to interest the mind of the traveler. We arrived at Pitts- 
burg about one o'clock in the morning. 

24th. — After breakfast we had a walk about town ; then went to 
a boat which was to descend the Ohio, and left at ten o'clock A. M. 
for Steubenville. From Steubenville, we went by carriage to Rich- 
mond, 0., and thence to the residence of our children Wm. H. and 
Caroline E. Ladd, with whom, and our daughter Hannah A., who 
was there, we were gratified to meet, and find in good health. 

28th. — Having staid a few days with our dear children, we set 
out about noon to-day homeward, our daughter H. with us. To 



1854.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 123 

Hammondsville by carriage ; our friend Robert Talbott with. us. 
Thence by railway to Cleveland, where we staid at the American 
House, a comfortable hotel. 

29th. — A little walk about town before breakfast ; then soon after, 
to the cars for Sandusky, by the way of the lake shore. We were 
at Sandusky at half-past eleven ; at Dayton at five ; and at home at 
seven o'clock P. m. It was truly pleasant to arrive at our own 
dear home. I believe that we are sensible that much sincere grate- 
fulness of heart is due from us to the Maker of Heaven and Earth, 
and Supreme Ruler of all that he has made, for his mercy and 
goodness to us, and the favors we have had, in the performance of 
this long and interesting journey. 

My dear wife's health, though imperfect, is better than when we 
set out. Our daughter Hannah A. has enjoyed her visit to her 
sister and sister's husband and their family much ; and returns 
delighted with it. 

The review of our journey to New England, and our visit to our 
friends where we went, their kindness, affection and fellowship, ap- 
pears pleasant and sweet to us. 

Seventh-month. — Previously to leaving home upon our journey to 
New England, I had entered into an agreement with John B. Posey, 
to build a dwelling-house for me and my family, on Washington 
street, in Richmond, near our present dwelling, with a view to oc- 
cupy it, and for our son "Charles and his family to take possession 
and occupy the house where we now live. J. B. P. has made some 
progress with the building in our absence. 

The weather during the summer thus far, has been noted for 
being very warm ; the average degree of health appears to have 
been quite about the usual average. 

Fears were entertained that the wheat crop would be very far 
short of the usual product, say not exceeding half; but it turns out 
better than was anticipated. 

The general health in this vicinity is very good. 

Eighth- month. — During last month and the present, I have been 
closely engaged in my usual occupation in my office at the Branch 
of the State Bank. My physical strength has not been large, yet 
weak in body as I am, I have been permitted to enjoy pretty good 
health, and have been enabled to get through with a good deal of 
business. 



124 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1854. 

Our new dwelling-house still progresses. The weather is still 
remarkably hot, and a general drought prevails. It is believed the 
crop of corn must be greatly shortened thereby. 

20th. — First-day. — On this day, in meeting time, an awful and 
thrilling event occurred at Milford ; the clothing of our dear friend 
Margaret White having taken fire, by which she was so sadly burned 
that she died in the evening. A general feeling of sympathy and 
sorrow prevails among her numerous friends and'acquaintance. 

22d. — The funeral of our friend Margaret White took place to- 
day ; after which, a solemn meeting was held. We were present. 

23d. — Monthly Meeting. Our friend Wm. G. Johnson from 
North Carolina, was present. He staid with us over the night. 

Ninth-month 4. — Elizabeth Meader, and her companions, Thomas 
S. GriiFord and Ruth, his wife, now engaged in a religious visit in 
these parts, arrived at our house this morning. We are glad to 
give them a cordial reception. 

5th. — They went forward intending to attend the meetings of 
Spiceland Quarterly Meeting, or a part of them. 

7th. — We commenced removing into our new house to-day. 
On the 10th, the decease of our dear friend William Hobbs took 
placed 

Ninth-month 14. — We have had many cares and perplexities in 
getting removed and settled in our new house ; yet a good Provi- 
dence has blessed us in health, and we feel as comfortable as we 
could at all expect, in our new home. 

The weather has been very dry for some time past, and the crops 
of corn, Irish potatoes, and some other vegetables, are thereby made 
to come much short of what they otherwise would. 

23d. — We have been much engaged in arranging and fixing up 
our premises, in connection with our ordinary calling. 

25th. —Our friends Elizabeth Meader and her companions have 
returned, preparatory to attending the Yearly Meeting. 

27th. — The committee on the Discipline met this morning. The 
emendations, etc. were read, and settled upon ; and a report to the 
Yearly Meeting adopted. The first public Meeting for Worship 
held as a part of the Yearly Meeting, was held at the usual hour 
to-day, and pretty largely attended. The Yearly Meeting of Min- 
isters and Elders, and the Meeting for Sufferings held their 



1854.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 125 

first sittings yesterday, in harmony and much good feeling. The 
Indian committee met in the afternoon to-day, as usual. 

Ninth-month 28. — Fifth-day. — The Yearly Meeting convened to- 
day, largely attended. Our friends Elizabeth Header, Nathaniel 
Sands, John Scott and William Gr. Johnson, in attendance ; also 
Thomas S. GTifford and Euth B., his wife, companions to E. Header. 
The usual business of the first sitting was transacted. Two epistles 
are received from Ohio, showing that a separation has taken place 
in that Yearly Meeting. A joint committee of men and women 
Friends were appointed to take the documents under consideration, 
and report to next sitting. 

29th. — The committee made report in favor of recognizing as 
Ohio Yearly Meeting, that body of which Jonathan Binns is clerk, 
which was very fully united with, and adopted without dissent. 

The meeting progressed with its business in much good feeling 
and Christian condescension, until the afternoon of Third-day, 
.Tenth-month 3, when it came to a solemn close. 

The proposed revision of the Discipline, including the emenda- 
tions, alterations and additions, was agreed to, and ten thousand 
copies of the book were ordered to be printed. 

Our friend Nathaniel Sands, accompanied by his son David Sands, 
and Paulina, his wife, from New York, who did not reach here on 
the day of the Meeting of Ministers and Elders, arrived on Fourth- 
day morning, the 27th, and attended afterward. 

A request for a new Yearly Meeting was entertained, and - a com- 
mittee appointed to visit those making the request, in regard 
thereto. 

Many other matters of interest were acted upon in much unity 
and brotherly feeling. 

Tenth-month 8. — Soon after the close of the Yearly Meeting the 
heart-touching intelligence reached us, of the loss at sea of the 
great steamship " Arctic," with about four hundred persons on 
board, who all perished, excepting perhaps about fifty. Among 
those who perished were our dear and valued friend Mahlon Day 
of New York, and his wife and daughter. We have been deeply 
moved at this affecting intelligence, confirmed as it is by sundry 
statements appearing for several days in succession. 

21st. — I have been out this week on a journey to the west, on 
the business of the bank. Went on the first day by railway to 



126 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1854 

Terre Haute ; thence by private conveyance next day, toward Yin- 
cennes ; staid at a village called Carlisle, near the Shaker Prairie, 
and reached Yincennes a little before noon next day ; then in the 
afternoon by railroad to Evansville ; next day back again, on the 
same route, to Yincennes, and so on, to Terre Haute, and home. 
The weather has been fine, and tne trip interesting, refreshing and? 
in general, agreeable. 

The weather is very fine this month. Our business at the bank 
is laborious and confining. The amount of business is greater, and 
the financial difficulties now in the country, make the management 
more laborious. 

Eleventh-month 30. — Since the last date above, I have been at 
home, blessed and in good health, and exceedingly engaged in my 
outward occupation at the bank. The printing of the Minutes of 
our late Yearly Meeting, and of our Discipline, have engaged a 
portion of my attention and labor. The weather has in general 
been mild for the season. 

Our beloved friend Nathan C. Hoag died on the 26th, and was 
buried on the 28th inst. By the death of this beloved brother, and 
our dear and valued friend and relation, and brother in the truth, 
William Hobbs, who departed this life on the 10th of the Ninth- 
month, we have lost two valuable Elders and fathers in the Church . 
They were both believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, who embraced 
the doctrines of the gospel as they are revealed in the Holy Scrip- 
tures, and preached them to others, endeavoring at the same time 
to make their own lives conformable thereto. William Hobbs was 
a Friend of good abilities, and by his good Christian example had 
great influence, which was still more extended by his labors of love, 
and for the good of the Church, while in the station of Elder. In 
the latter part of his life, he was acknowledged and recorded as a 
Minister, and traveled considerably in that capacity. Nathan C. 
Hoag was an able and gifted minister of the New Testament, who 
traveled very extensively in America. They were both men whose 
thorough soundness in the Christian faith, procured for them the 
respect of sound Christian people of other professions, whese they 
became known. William Hobbs was buried at Spiceland, and 
Nathan C. Hoag at Carthage. 

Twelfth-month 14. — We have now examined the last proof sheets 
of the Discipline, including the index to the work, prepared by my- 



1855.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 127 



self. It is expected that the printing will be finished this week. I 
believe that our Discipline is greatly improved by this revision, and 
by the additions which it has received. Some dissatisfaction was 
expressed in the Yearl} T Meeting with that portion relating to loss 
of the right of membership by going out in marriage. I was in 
favor of it as it now stands in the revised work, and hope it may 
have a fair trial. If, in practice, it should not be found to work 
well, it can be altered ; and this was the view the Yearly Meeting 
took of it. The introduction into the forepart of our book, of our 
Declarations of Christian Faith, appears to be very satisfactory to 
Friends. The additions in regard to the Holy Scriptures, the First- 
day of the week, and some other points, also afford much satis- 
faction. 

Our boarding-school is progressing under the administration 
of our beloved friend David Hunt, to quite as good, if not better 
satisfaction, than heretofore. The number is nearly seventy : and the 
scholars in attendance are mostly pretty well advanced to the growth 
and age of young men and women. It is always interesting to ones 
feelings to visit them and be among them. The buildings are pro- 
gressing finely. The walls of the new parts are now up, and the 
roof is in progress. It is a great addition to the appearance, and 
will be still greater to the convenience, and we may hope, usefulness 
of the Institution to have these buildings finished. 

I am not now a member of the boarding-school committee, but I 
attended, and heard the Scripture reading on the last First-day morn- 
ing in the girls' department. 

Twelfth -month 15. — Attended Friend's school, at Rich-square, 
John Macy, teacher ; nearly seventy scholars; a profitable school. 
I have no doubt. My dear wife and several members of the branch 
committee and of their Monthly Meeting committee were in at- 
tendance. Staid at Joel Johnson's, much to our satisfaction. 

Seconcl-montli 3, 1855 — TTe were thoughtful yesterday, that it 
was the date of our marriage union, in one thousand eight hun- 
dred and twenty, so that we have now been permitted to live to- 
gether, in this state thirty-five years. We are made to know in 
various ways, of the increase of age upon us. Gray hairs are 
appearing, and we are not able to bear the same endurance of la- 
bor, physical or mental, that we have been equal to in earlier life. 
But in the goodness of a gracious Providence, we have, for a long 



128 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 1855.] 

time past, been blessed with many outward comforts, and are still 
in the enjoyment of them. These we desire to commemorate, and 
that our hearts may be duly sensible of, and truly thankful for. 
Moreover we have been permitted, greatly unworthy as we have 
been, to enjoy much sweetness of religious fellowship together, and 
with others in the church, a favor greatly adding to our comfort and 
happiness, and no less calling for the gratefulness of our hearts than 
outward blessings. 

The fore part of the present winter was very mild for this cli- 
mate; but during the two weeks past, we have had real winter. 
An unusual quantity of snow has fallen, and now lies at a consider- 
able depth. The mercury was at one time about two degrees below 
zero. This morning it was two degrees above zero. Vegetables 
are scarce, this season, and provisions dear. Flour is four dol- 
lars the hundred pounds; meal fifty to sixty cents per bushel; 
beef six and a quarter ; Irish potatoes one dollar and fifty cents 
per bushel. 

My dear wife has been reading to us of evenings, the Memoirs of 
Joseph John Guerney ; a work which has been instructive and edify- 
ing, as well as very entertaining. 

On the 29th ultimo, we held the regular Quarterly Meeting of 
our book and tract committee, snowy and inclement as the day 
was ; and had an agreeable and comforting time together. 

Our new Dicipline is now published, and has been adopted into 
force by our Monthly Meeting. 

The accounts that have come to us this winter of the awful fight- 
ing, in the fall, of the combined armies of Turkey, England and 
France, against those of Russia, at Sebastopol, and in that region, 
are truly affecting. 

I have received very sweet letters from my beloved friends Sam- 
uel Boyd Tobey, Josiah Forster, Samuel Boyce and John Candler. 
Truly, it is cordial to have these testimonials of love and fellowship 
from distant brothers in the same faith and hope. 

11th. — We have steady winter weather, with much snow on the 
ground. Sleighs haye been running with much facility for some 
time past. 

Our friend Thomas Lamb was run over by a locomotive on the 
railway, on Fourth-day afternoon, the seventh, by which he was so 
badly injured that he expired in a short time. He was buried ob 



1855.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 129 

Sixth-day morning, the ninth. A fresh warning to the living to be 
fit for sudden death. 

My dear wife is gone to Corwin to visit our children there, and 
expects to attend Miami Quarterly Meeting. 

I am making some progress with my Scripture exercises on Gen- 
esis. We are still reading; together, of evenings, the Memoirs of 
our beloved friend Joseph John Guerney, greatly to our interest 
and edification. 

James Bowden's second volume of his History of Friends in 
America, is received, and I am making some progress in read- 
ing it. 

Those most closely connected with Elijah Coffin were daily 
observers of his tender conscience and kind feelings, his 
uniform example of affectionate attention, with the gentle- 
manly bearing and dignity of character which were manifest 
in his social and religious, as well as in his business relations, 
and so adorned his whole demeanor that they won for him the 
confidence, love and esteem of his family, his friends and 
the public; yet he was "a man of like passions as we are," 
and had the same frailties of human nature to contend 
with, the same causes for humiliation and penitence at the 
footstool of mercy, that have marked the progress of the 
Christian since the "fall of man." The following touching 
prayer evinces the faithful record which he kept of the 
state of his mind, and the daily watchfulness which he main- 
tained over his conduct and expressions. 

8eccmd->month 16.— Remember me, God, in thy mercy, and 
cast me not away. I acknowledge thy continued good and unmer- 
ited kindness toward me, unworthy as I am. Thou givest me much 
happiness by day and by night. Thou givest me excellent health, 
and those enjoyments which it enables me to take and relish. Thou 
givest me food to the extent of my desire. Thou givest me cloth- 
ing, neat, comfortable, and plentiful, and all that I could wish. 
Thou givest me great domestic felicity with my family, in my home 



130 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1855. 

and with my friends. And yet, amidst all these blessings, my dis- 
position and my conduct has fallen far short of being what it should 
be. I have frequently been fretful in temper and in words, in my 
own family. I have frequently shown something of the same to 
others, with whom I have had intercourse, thereby wounding their 
feelings, and discrediting my own profession before them, and in 
thy sight. I fear I have sometimes been wanting in generosity, 
and in sufficient hospitality and kindness to my friends. Enable 
me, Lord ! to repent, thoroughly, for all those sins, and every 
other. God! forgive me ! In the greatness of thy mercy pass 
by and blot out all my transgressions, and remember my sins no 
more. Let all the sins of my youth be forgotten before thee. 
Pardon me, in mercy, for Christ's sake. Cover up my errors in 
the face of my people, and those whom I have offended, and cause 
them to forgive and forget everything which has been sinful or 
improper. But, good and holy One! keep me in vivid remem- 
brance of my many transgressions and weakness, as a continued 
warning for the future. give me thy Holy Spirit plentifully, ac- 
cordingly as thou mayst see fit for me. Help me to be humble 
before thee, and before all men. Help me to be deeply grateful 
to thee for thy everlasting goodness and mercy, through Jesus 
Christ, my Lord. Amen. 

TJurd-month 2. — Quarterly Meeting of Ministers and Elders, at 
Milford. We had a good meeting, truly encouraging and edifying 
because of the evidence, which was so sensibly felt over the meet- 
ing, that the Good Spirit was there. 

In the afternoon the Annual Meeting of the Whitewater auxili- 
ary Bible association was held. It was a good time. The best 
spirit prevailed, and the meeting ended in much satisfaction. 

3d. — We heard this morning of the decease of our dear, long- 
loved, and valued friend Anna Moore, widow of Thomas Moore. 
The event was not unexpected- — yet it is very solemn. I have the 
best hope that her end is peace. She has long been an approved 
Minister of the gospel of Christ, in which I think she was a be- 
liever sincerely and unreservedly. 

We had a satisfactory Quarterly Meeting to-day. Most of the 
Monthly Meetings have received and adopted the new Discipline. 

5th. — We attended the burial of our dear friend Anna Moore, at 
Milford. A solemn meeting was held previously to the interment. 



1855.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIX. 131 

Fourth-month 20. — We were truly gladdened by the arrival of 
our two very dear daughters, Caroline and Mary, on a visit. Caro- 
line appears to be in fine health, and Mary in her usual health. It 
gave us great pleasure to receive them. 

21st. — We attended Springfield Monthly Meeting at Nettle 
Creek : our friend Levi Jessup with us : went with others. I 
appointed to the service by the Quarterly Meeting's branch com- 
mittee on education. On First-day morning, the 22d, we attended 
their Scripture school at the same place — then meeting. In the 
afternoon we visited the Scripture school at West River. 

28th.- — Our dear William manifests a decided inclination to re- 
move to Kansas — and has sold his farm near Milton, with that in- 
tent. We are much concerned about him and his dear family, in 
regard thereto. It would be much more satisfactory to us. if they 
could see their way clear to remain near us. in this part of the 
country. 

Fifth-month 1. — TTe hear that our dear William is setting off 
about this time, without his family, intending first to go and see 
Kansas again, and also see whether he can arrange to suit himself. 

Our dear Caroline started homeward to-day — Mary having gone 
a few days before. Their visit has been very cordial to us. 

Our First-day school for Scriptural instruction was opened on 
the 15th of last month, with eighty-seven scholars. We were not 
looking for so large an attendance at first. On the 22d, over one 
hundred attended : and nearly one hundred on the 29th. It is a 
great but interesting charge. 

Our dear Hannah Amelia is in the boarding-school this session, 
and appears to be in fine health and spirits. 

We have finished reading the Memoirs of Joseph John 
a work in which we have been deeply interested, and much edified. 
We are now reading the Life of Elizabeth Fry. by Susannah Cot 3 
She was indeed a most extraordinary woman, greatly gifted, and a 
remarkable instrument for good. 

Sixth-month 4. — We have as yet had very little hot weather this 
year ; but vegetation is progressing pretty rapidly, and we have 
been blessed with fine rains. 

Our Meeting for Sufferings and Quarterly Meeting are just past. 
We have certainly had a favored time together. Our friends Grec : 



132 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1855. 

Carter and Thomas Arnett, both Ministers of years and much ex- 
perience were present, and had acceptable service. On yesterday 
(First-day), in public Meeting for Worship, our younger friends 
Daniel H. liutchins and Ellwood Ozbun, were both extensively en- 
gaged, and with moving effect. 

9th. — We have received letters from our dear William in Kansas, 
which relieve us of considerable anxiety on his account, having heard 
that there was cholera on the Missouri Biver. He gives a very 
favorable account of the country — and a better prospect that slavery 
will not be admitted into it, than we were expecting. But he re- 
serves much for future information. 

We hear to-day that the Yearly Meeting of London has accepted 
the epistle from the Yearly Meeting in Ohio, of which Jonathan 
Binns is clerk, the same body which we have recognized as the 
true Yearly Meeting. This intelligence is truly comfortable to us^ 
but we must keep low. 

The Yearly Meeting, in New York, just past, has, as we had ex- 
pected, accepted correspondence from the same meeting. 

11th. — By a letter received to-day from my beloved friend John 
Allen, the account of the decision of the Yearly Meeting in London 
is confirmed. This seems to us as truly good news from a foreign 
land. ,While I ought to be thankful, and to endeavor to dwell in 
great humility, lest some improper feeling of exaltation should creep 
in, I entertain the hope and confidence that this decision will tend 
much toward the settlement of the Society in this country, as well 
as in Europe; and have some effect in staying the plague of jealousy, 
stiffness, and division, which have obtained too much place in some 
parts. 

12th. — A Public Meeting was held last evening, numerously at- 
tended, to demonstrate the public joy, at the passage of the total 
prohibition Liquor Law, and to make provision for having it carried 
into effect in this town and vicinity. An excellent feeling prevailed. 
The law goes into operation to-day. 

We have had profuse rains. All vegetation is progressing 
rapidly. 

David Hampton died of cholera to-day, at nine o'clock A. M. 

Seventh-month 12. — Our son Charles and his wife set off this 
morning on a journey eastward, intending to proceed by the way 



1855.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 133 

of Buffalo and Niagara Falls, across Lake Ontario, to Montreal ; 
thence to Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and other places. 
Although my cares and labors will, no doubt, be greatly increased 
during Charles' absence, I am glad for them to have the relaxation, 
entertainment and instruction which, it is hoped, this journey may 
afford them. 

20th. — We have received interesting letters from our son William, 
in Kansas. He has purchased a claim eleven miles west of Leaven- 
worth, and is preparing a dwelling, and for farming. 

The weather here is now extremely hot. On the IStli, the 
mercury stood at ninety-six degrees. Wheat harvest has been 
progressing. Wheat is said to be remarkably good, both as to 
quality and the amount yielded. Irish potatoes are also remark- 
ably good ; they never grew better, perhaps, in this country. The 
products of the meadows are also very fine; and the oats crop is 
excellent. Corn also promises well ; so that it is said all the crops 
are uncommonly good. There is much to call forth our devout 
gratitude for the many blessings with which our happy country is 
so highly favored. Good general health, among the rest, though 
one of the best, is enjoyed by the citizens. 

We are nearly through the Memoirs of Elizabeth Fry, in which 
we have been greatly interested and edified. 

23d. — My beloved wife set off this morning to join other mem- 
bers of the committee of our last Yearly Meeting, to visit the 
Quarterly Meetings of Blue River, Union, Western, Whitelick, 
and Concord, on their request, for the establishment of a new 
Yearly Meeting. 

Eighth-month 4. — The weather has continued very warm, and we 
have had much wet. 

Our son Charles, and Rhoda his wife, returned this morning 
from their long visit to the eastward, in good health, and thankful 
for their favors. 

We hear to-day that our son William has also returned home 
from Kansas to his family. 

In the evening, after the foregoing was written, our dear children, 
William and Sarah, came in on a visit, much to our rejoicing. 
William appears very well after his long journey, and comes home 
with a high opinion of Kansas, as a beautiful, productive and 
healthful new country. 



131 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1855. 

13th. — My clear wife is still absent with the Yearly Meeting's 
committee, on their visit to the five Quarterly Meetings. We have 
been favored with health and as large a share of happiness as we 
ought to expect. How are we continually reminded by the favors 
we have of the gratitude which should flow in our hearts toward 
the Good Giver of our blessings. 

The weather has still continued wet, and the vegetation is extra- 
ordinary. I can not remember ever to have seen a season that 
favored almost all productions so remarkably. 

I have been so incessantly employed in our ordinary business, 
that my progress in my Scripture Exercises on Genesis has been 
slow. I have, however, made some progress; and if life and ability 
be continued, hope to get through this book soon. 

I have been reading Marcy's Exploration of the lied River, and 
am now engaged in the Explorations of the Amazon, which works 
afford me entertainment at intervals not otherwise taken up. 

25th. — This day is Concord Quarterly Meeting. My wife hav- 
ing returned home from White-lick for a little rest, we proceeded 
together, by railway, to attend this meeting. We have found the 
meeting to be a large one, and the body of Friends composing it, to 
be an interesting one. It has afforded me interest and satisfaction to 
attend not only their Quarterly Meeting, but the Meeting of Minis- 
ters and Elders, and their education, African, and book and tract 
committees, and their Bible Meeting. 

We returned home on Second-day morning the 28th. 
Ninth-month 12. — Our central book and tract committee, at 
their last meeting, having had the subject before them, of issuing 
a tract containing a brief Statement of our Christian Doctrines, the 
care of compiling such a tract has rested much upon me. Having 
compiled and arranged the matter for such a tract, the committee 
held a meeting to-day to hear it, and judge of its suitableness. 
After the reading and considerable discussion, and some emendations, 
the tract was approved, and directed to be forwarded to our Meet- 
ing for Sufferings. A very good spirit prevailed. 

22d. — I have finished my Scripture Exercises on the Book of 
Genesis, preparatory to going to press. It has given me much in- 
teresting labor. I hope it may be printed this fall, and do some 
good in helping forward the good work for which it is made out. 
This is my object. 



1855.] l LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 135 

Our beloved children, Wm. H. and Caroline E. Ladd, came in 
this evening on a visit of a few days. It was joyful to us to meet 
them in good health and spirits. 

21th. — To-day the public school was opened in the Union school- 
house, in Richmond. The school is opened under promising cir- 
cumstances, superintended by J. Hurty, with about five hundred 
in attendance. 

21th. — Having entertained for a long time, a desire to visit our 
native country of North Carolina, and attend the Yearly Meeting 
of Friends in that state, my wife and myself laid the prospect be- 
fore our Monthly Meeting to-day, and received the unity and con- 
currence of our friends therein, and a minute was made out ex- 
pressive thereof, a copy of which was supplied to us. 

2Gth. — We set off upon our journey this morning at half past 
ten o'clock, by railroad, and passed Dayton, Xenia, Columbus and 
Newark to Zanesville, where we took supper about dark. Thence 
to the Ohio River at Bellair, and by steamboat across to the Balti- 
more and Ohio Railroad, below Wheeling. We proceeded during 
the night across the mountains, and came to Cumberland early on 
the 27th : thence by the same road to Baltimore, where we arrived 
about five o'clock p. m. It was truly pleasant to meet with a cor- 
dial reception at the house of our dear friend, Doctor R. H. Thomas, 
where we staid. 

28th. — First-day. — Attended meeting in Baltimore, both in the 
morning and afternoon. Yisited our beloved friend Hugh Balder- 
ston and family in the evening. 

29th. — In attempting to go forward upon our journey to the 
southward this morning, the carriage in which we rode to the rail- 
road depot, was upset, and we were shocked and somewhat bruised. 
But we had cause of gratefulness for preservation from worse in- 
juries. After returning and lying by quietly for a while, we pro- 
ceeded at three o'clock P. M. to Washington. 

It was so late in the afternoon when we reached Washington, 
that we had but little time by daylight to see the city and the pub- 
lic buildings. But we walked near the capitol ; then, taking a hack, 
we rode to the President's house, and tho four offices, state, treas- 
ury, war and navy ; by which time it became dark. 

We went to our hotel, having received kind attention from Jona- 
than Dennis, who resides in Washington, and from a daughter of 



136 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1855. 

Isaac Brooks, of Baltimore, who had been with us in the cars. 

30th. — We set off at six o'clock A. M., in the boat down the Po- 
tomac, to the station at Acquia Creek; thence by railroad, via 
Fredericksburg, Richmond and Petersburg to Weldon, where we 
took supper. Thence by night, via Goldsborough, to Raleigh, 
where we arrived about daylight on the morning of the 31st. We 
made no stop here, but proceeded by railroad toward Greens- 
borough. The iron rails not being laid through, we had fifteen 
miles by coach, and arrived at Greensborough between one and two 
o'clock r. 31. — thence, after dinner, by coach to New Garden. 

Eleventh-month 1. — We are fairly settled at the boarding-school 
for our home. Very solemn was our first visit to the meeting- 
house and grave-yard, last evening. The forests are particularly 
beautiful. Black, white and red oaks are the principal trees — 
among which are mixed, chesnuts and other trees. The house 
looks old to us, and appears smaller than it once did to us. Its 
size is thirty-five b}^ seventy feet, two stories high, divided into two 
equal rooms by a partition. It was built about the year 1791, as 
indicated by that date cut in a latch-plate on the partition door, 
which may be considered correct. It was the old house, long since 
gone, (not this building,) that was converted into a hospital for the 
wounded, by the British army, after the battle of Guilford in 1781. 
It was in this meeting-house that we were married in 1820. 

The grave-yard appears to be nearly twice as large as it was 
when we removed in 1821. Over all of the older part of the yard, 
the myrtle is thickly matted ; and the princely white oak still 
stands in the midst of that part. 

The grave of my dear honored mother is here, where she was 
buried in the Tenth-month, 1820---wkich we visited with very 
solemn feelings. In this yard were also buried mw grandfather 
and grandmother Coffin, and a large number of other near rela- 
tives. Here too we find the graves of many who were living, men 
and women, at the time of our removal in 1824. The reflections 
and associations upon this review were truly solemn, and served 
to refresh in our minds a lively sense, truly awful, of our own 
mortality. 

The following lines penned by Elijah Coffin on the 
death of his mother were " written at her Grave, 



1855.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 137 

years previous to the above date, while in the twenty- 
second year of his age. They are inserted here to preserve 
for his descendants the tribute of his affectionate heart 
to the memory of his honored parent.* 

ELEGY ON THE DEATH OF MY MOTHER. 
Departing soul, farewell! thy days on earth 
Must be no more. So God, allwise, ordains. 
Thy sufferings, Mother dear! affect my breast 
With anguish still! still rouse the tear of love 
And move my sympathetic heart to weep! 
But, (happy thought!) those sufferings were in body, 
Not in mind! How sad that night, when I 
(A near beholder of thy great distress,) 
Had not the power, the hand of sweet relief 
T' extend, but did, with anxious thought behold, 
My dear maternal guardian thus expire! 
So frail is man! — But thou art gone, and we 
Thee soon must follow! Thou hast trod the way 
And pointed out to us our final doom ! 
Diseased frames, distempered bodies frail 
And troubled souls! such thou hast left behind! 
From thee have pains and sorrows fled; by thee 
Are perfect quiet, rest and peace enjoyed. 
Then why should we, departed soul! now mourn 
Thy death, when it to thee, more joyful life 
Brings in? And when ourselves to such distress 
As thou hast often felt, are still subjected! 
There is no cause. Then let me now desist; 
And hold in grateful memory long thy care, 
Thy love maternal, and affection kind. 
Departed soul, adieu! while I'm confined 
In brittle clay! I soon must follow thee! 
And if we meet again, we part no morel 
New Garden, N. C, Tenth-month 12, 1820. 

We returned at dusk to the boarding-school. 

This morning, assisted by our kind friend and relation, John 
H. Hubbard, we visited the farm and dwelling once occupied by 
our honored parents, Benajah and Elizabeth Hiatt, where my wife 
was brought up in early life. The farm is mucli^ altered, and the 

* It is proper to remark that he claimed at no period of his life, any preten- 
sions to versification. 

10 



138 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1855. 

house has been permitted to decline. After a suitable stay about 
the premises, we went to Seaborn Hoskins', and remained with them 
until after dinner. Then called at Moses Hoskins', and made a 
short stay with him and his two sisters. Then to Sarah Stanley's, 
an aged widow whom we well knew in early life. Then to Stephen 
Macy's ; and I went to the well at the premises once occupied by 
my uncle Jesse Evans. We returned to the school in the evening. 

2d. — Our friend John Russel called for us this morning, to take 
us in his carriage to Deep River meeting house, in order that I 
might attend the Meeting for Sufferings at that place. My wife, 
however, stopped at David Beard's near by, and after meeting we 
went to G-eorge C. Mendenhall's, where we had the agreeable com- 
pany of Amos and Edith Griffith, David and Rebecca T. Updegraff, 
their daughter, Sarah Jenkins, and Jane Young, from Canada. 
The Meeting for Sufferings consisted of twenty-five to thirty-five 
intelligent Friends, in whose proceedings I was interested. 

The Central Book and Tract Committee of Indiana Yearly^Meet- 
ing, having, as they believed, felt the need of a suitable tract, set- 
ting forth in a clear, short, yet full manner, without controversy, the 
Christian Doctrines of the Society of Friends, had compiled such 
an one, in which work I had taken an active interest. We felt the 
responsibility of such an undertaking deeply. After we had pre- 
pared the tract nearly ready for printing, aud had some proof sheets 
struck off, it was laid before our Meeting for Sufferings in the fore- 
part of the Tenth-month, and that body having approved of the 
tract, a minute was made authorizing the publication of fifteen 
thousand copies by the central committee. I had one of these 
proof sheets with me, and having informed Friends of what we in 
our country were doing in this matter, they caused the tract to 
be read — and the general approbation of the meeting thereof was 
expressed. A minute was made approving it, and the tract was 
sent forward to the Yearly Meeting. 

3d. — We attended the Meeting of Ministers and Elders at Deep , 
River : about thirty -two men and thirty-eight women present. I 
considered it a solemn favored meeting. Dined at cousin Abel Cof- 
fin's and were taken back to New Garden in the afternoon, by our 
very kind friend John Russell. We returned to New Garden, by a 
different road from that we came, and were much interested in ob- 
serving the farms and dwellings as they now appear, and in think- 



1855.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 139 

ing of the changes which have taken place since the days of our 
youth. 

4th. — First-day. — At Scripture reading last evening, I thought it 
right to offer to officiate as teacher in a Scripture school, to convene 
at nine A. M. this morning, which offer was accepted, and a consider- 
able number -of youth, and several of such as were advanced in 
years attended. We had a satisfactory time together; and it was 
concluded to meet again this evening for like exercises. 

At meeting at the regular hour. The house was filled below and 
the gallery, above stairs, was partly occupied. We had a favored 
meeting. It seems to us that the number in attendance was not 
nearly so large as it was customary to have been in the days of our 
youth, on this occasion. 

When we were seated in meeting, the prospect was, to me, very 
solemn. There were the seats before me which I used to occupy when 
a boy, and from that time until I was grown and married. The 
living multitude that then occupied those seats are not there now-' 
And the fathers, who occupied the seats in one of which I now sit 
where are they ? They are not here ; they are gone forever from 
the sight of men. These and other like considerations are very 
serious, and give fresh admonition that this world is not our 
home. 

In the afternoon we walked over to the farm and dwelling where 
we first settled after marriage. They have been suffered to decline 
greatly. A family of renters, in low circumstances, resided in the 
house, and were very kind to us. 

In the evening we attended again to our Scripture reading and ex- 
ercises, in which others present seemed to take a lively interest. 

5th. — We rode to the place occupied by my honored parents at 
the time of my marriage and for about ten years before : but it be- 
gan raining, and we did not walk about much. 

Yearly Meeting for Discipline was opened at eleven A. M. We 
had a quiet and a good meeting. The business was proceeded with 
in about the usual manner, Aaron Stalker being the clerk. 

6th. — The Yearly Meeting proceeded with business to-day har- 
moniously. 

7th. — Fourth-day. — Meeting of Ministers and Elders at nine A.M. 
It was a precious time of very evident visitation of Divine love, 
About forty-two men and forty women present. 



140 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1855. 

Public Meeting for Worship at eleven A. M. It was pretty largely 
attended, and was a good meeting. 

8th. — Meeting for Sufferings at nine A. M. Yearly Meeting for 
Discipline at eleven A. M. 

9th. — Sixth-day. — After a long sitting and the finishing of the 
business in harmony, the Yearly Meeting closed, late in the after- 
noon. 

Our Scripture exercises of evenings, at the boarding-school, have 
been continued, and a lively interest in them is manifested by some 
both of the young and old. 

Most Friends left this evening — some for their homes and some 
for Center, where the Western Quarterly Meeting is to be held to- 
morrow. We went to John Hiatt's. 

10th. — We visited the widow of Christopher Hiatt, deceased, 
and my wife remained there, while I went to Greensboro'. At 
Greensboro' I called on Jesse Lindsay, cashier of the Bank of Cape 
Fear, at that place, in his office, and had some pleasant conversation 
with him: then at some of the stores; then at the Branch of the 
Farmer's Bank, W. A. Caldwell, cashier ; and afterward on my old 
friends Doctor David and Thomas Caldwell, each at his own house. 
I was received very kindly. They are sons of Doctor David 
Caldwell, a presbyterian minister, one of the early settlers in this 
part of the State, and he kept an academy for young men. Resid- 
ing about four miles from my father's, we were well acquainted with 
him and his family, in my youthful days. The two sons, above 
named, are both old men now. The town of Greensboro' is much 
improved since we removed from this county; the number of inhab- 
itants was about two thousand five hundred at the last census, but 
is estimated considerably larger now. I wished to see Governor 
John M. Moorhead and his brother James, but they were both ab- 
sent from home. I returned to widow Hiatt's to dinner, and we 
were very kindly taken home to the school in the afternoon by a 
son of John Hiatt. On our way to the school we passed very near 
to the old Sandy Spring meeting-house. The house appears to be 
going to decay, no meeting of Friends having been held there for 
more than thirty years past. 

11th. — First-day. — We attended the Meeting for Worship at New 
Garden to-day. It was small. We took tea in the evening at Na- 



1855.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 141 

than Clark's — his mother, Asenath, an old acquaintance of ours, 
residing with them. 

12th. — We made a call on Doctor Samuel Coffin, and afterward 
at his father's; my cousin Elihu Coffin, then went to Phebe Hobos', 
a widow, who occupies the dwelling and owns the farm which were 
formerly my father's where we were kindly entertained. I walked 
over the farm, and along the branch, thinking of scenes of my 
youth, and taking notice of the present condition of spots then 
familiar to me. We called, as we returned toward the school, at 
the place once occupied by my grandfather. 

13th. — Passed the day mostly about the school. The session was 
opened yesterday — about eighty scholars have already come in. 
Aaron Stalker and Jane, his wife, superintendents; John R. Hub- 
bard and John H. Stewart, teachers, in the boys' department, and 
Lydia H. and Mary Ann Stalker (daughters of Aaron), teachers, 
in the girls' department. There appears to me to be a good pros- 
pect of this institution being very useful. By the desire of the 
superintendent, the Scripture exercises, after our manner, have 
been attended to on the three evenings last past. 

14th. — We set off with Doctor Samuel Coffin and George Harvey, 
for Randolph county, the doctor having kindly consented to accom- 
pany and convey us. 

We passed two copper-mines on our way to Center ; the first 
the " Fisher Hill Mine," and the other, near Center, called the 
" Fentriss Mine,'' owned by the North Carolina Copper Mine Com- 
pany. We did not see any one at work at the Fisher Hill Mine — 
the work was either suspended, or the parties were absent grinding 
ore; but at the Fentriss Mine they appeared to be in full operation. 
We were permitted to examine any part with entire freedom. We 
did not incline to descend into the shaft. We were informed that 
the mine is now penetrated to the depth of three hundred feet, 
where the ore diggers are now working. 

We dined with Abigail, the widow of Joshua Stanley; he having 
very recently deceased. We arrived at Franklinsville in the even- 
ing, and were kindly received by Alexander and Jane Horney, the 
latter being the youngest daughter of my brother Elisha. 

15th. — Dr. Samuel and George set off on their return this morn- 
ing, and we went forward, in a carriage furnished by Alexander 
Horney, to my brother's. He manifested great joy at seeing us 
once more. 



142 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1855. 



CHAPTER VII. 

Beturn Home — Religious Exercises — Indiana Yearly Meetsng — War ik 

Kansas. 

Eleventh-month 17. — We attended Holly Spring Monthly Meeting. 

18th. — First-day. — We parted with my brother's wife, and at- 
tended meeting at Holly Spring; then, after meeting, went to 
Franklinsville, home with Alexander Horney and his wife and 
daughter, who were also at meeting. Our brother also went 
with us. 

19th. — We parted with our relations in the morning, and went 
forward to Graham, the county-seat of Allemance county, at which 
place we had to stay over until noon, the 20th, when we took the 
cars for Baleigh. We returned home by the same route we came, 
making no stay in Baltimore, excepting over one night. 

We arrived at home on Sixth-day evening, the 23d, and had 
great reason for thankfulness, in the review, for the preservation, 
favors and comforts that we had enjoyed during this long journey. 

30th — Twelfth-month 1 and 2. — We had a good Quarterly Meet- 
ing. Our friends, Eleazar Bales, Thomas Jay and Smith Gregg, 
were in attendance. The weather being mild for the season, I con- 
sidered the number in attendance to be rather larger than the 
Yearly Meeting in North Carolina. 

9th and 10th. — Stormy, wintry days. Until now, we have had 
weather of unusual mildness for the season. 

26th. — This morning is much the coldest of the season so far. 
The thermometer indicated ten degrees below zero at our house. 
Some snow on the ground. Good health generally prevails. 
Monthly Meeting to-day. 

27th. — Thermometer four degrees below zero. 

Our son William and his interesting family having removed to 
Kansas about the 31st of the Tenth-month last, we have heard of 
their safe arrival in that Territory about the 8th of the Eleventh- 
month. We are much concerned for them at this time, lest they 



1856.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 143 

should suffer from cold and exposure in that new country, in which 
there are as yet but few comforts of those kinds which are provided 
by the industry of man. 

30th. — We have received a letter from dear William, giving us 
as favorable account as we could properly expect. The "Missouri 
ruffians" have made much difficulty there recently, threatening 
civil war; but we hear they have gone back, for the present at 
least. The numbers from Missouri, in the parties of invaders, are 
variously estimated from seven hundred to one thousand five hun- 
dred, with military equipments, avowing their intention to destroy 
the town of Lawrence and its inhabitants. 

31st. — It is a solemn thing to reflect on this being the last day 
of the year. 0! that I may more earnestly desire, more earnestly 
pray to improve for the time to come ; to be more practically what 
I would be ; to be really and more thoroughly a Christian indeed. 
I acknowledge that, in contemplating on the character of a genuine 
primitive disciple of Christ, it seems to me that I fall much short 
of it. What is to prevent it? Is it any more difficult to be a 
Christian now than it was in the apostles' days, or in the days of 
our first Friends ? I can see no good reason why we should not 
be as devoted, thorough Christians, in principle, faith and practice, 
now as then. Let me take fresh resolution with the new year. 
Help me, Father of love and goodness. 

First-month 1, 1856.— A beautiful winter morning. The ther- 
mometer five degrees below zero. G-ood health and the blessings 
of heaven attend us. 0, for a full sense of gratitude ! 

4th. — The mercury was this morning about fifteen degress below 
zero in the thermometer. Our dear children, Eli and Mary, are 
with us ; she being under a doctor's care. There seems to be a 
good prospect at present that her health may improve. 

9th and 10th. — On both these mornings the mercury went down 
in the thermometer to twenty-six and twenty-eight degrees below 
zero, the greatest degree of cold ever observed by us since our 
residence in this country, when we had an instrument to indicate 
it. During the 9th, the mercury through the day did not rise 
higher than six to eight degrees below zero. Ground covered 
with 'snow. 

All kinds of provisions common to our country are plentiful, but 
at prices high, as compared with the prices which have been com- 



144 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1856- 

mon heretofore. Flour $3.50 the 100 lbs.; the hog market opened 
at $6.00 to $6.25, declined to $4.50 and $5.00; beefsteak 8J cents 
per pound; firewood $2.50 to $3.00 per cord; wheat, $1.30 per 
bushel ; corn, 25 to 30 cents ; oats, 25 cents ; hay, $10.00 per tun. 

On the evening of the 9th, our dear Bhoda was confined with a 
fine boy ; they decide to call his name William Edward. It is 
cause of much thankfulness that she is doing so well. 

23d. — Monthly Meeting. Moses Beede is here, having returned 
from Iowa, whither he went after the Yearly Meeting. He obtained 
the approbation of the meeting to perform a family visit to our 
members here. 

24th. — This morning M. B. had a solemn sitting with us. His 
communication was lively, affectionate, encouraging and warning. 

25th. — A vision in my sleep last night. My father, in conver- 
sation with me concerning my religious condition (perfectly natural, 
without any appreciation on my part, of his being long since de- 
ceased), brought home to me in a concise way, that my conduct was 
not right in the Divine sight, having reference to the fretful manner 
in which I sometimes speak to others in business at the counter, 
and supported his remark, by the evidence of a quiet man, a disin- 
terested witness against me, and I saw no place of escape from the 
guilt and condemnation. I awoke under a strong impression of the 
case, and a deep sense of mortification. O Lord, I crave thy mercy ! 
I crave thy forgiveness of my sins! Grant to me ability to pray 
availingly for pardon, through Jesus Christ, and for his sake. 

Now, whatever may be my pretense and profession as to religion, 
if others see in my countenance, and in my conduct, and hear in 
my words and tone, what does not correspond with my profession, 
where am I in their view ? Where am I really, by the impartial 
standard ? Is not my vision too true ? Am I not short in doing as 
I ought, to complete the Christian character which I profess, to fill 
the station which I occupy, and the just expectation of others who 
look for it from me ? 

This dream makes a vivid impression on me. May I take the 
hint to improve from it. Lord, help me ! I can not help myself ! 

30th. — The weather continues very cold, with considerable snow 
on the ground. This month has been very cold throughout, with 
some days colder than we probably ever experienced heretofore. 
Mercury this morning four degrees above zero. 



1856.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 145 

The decease of our very dear friend Stephen Crellet, which oc- 
curred on the 16th of the Eleventh-month, 1855, has made a deep 
sensation among Friends in America and in Europe. He was an 
excellent Christian, and a very remarkable man. 

On Second-day the 28th inst., the Quarterly Meeting of our Cen- 
tral Book and Tract Committee was held, and considerable business 
done, as usual. One edition of ten thousand copies of our tract 
on Christian Doctrines, has been issued, and divided out principally 
in portions for distribution among Friends in our several Quarterly 
Meetings ; eight thousand being forwarded in this way, and one 
thousand five hundred have been sent to North Carolina. We have 
ordered another edition of five thousand, which are now about 
ready. 

Our boarding-school has about one hundred and twenty-five 
students this session. It seems much more comfortable and com- 
modious to all parties, since the buildings are so nearly completed. 
I have been taking a livety interest in promoting a better and more 
thorough course of Scriptural instruction in the institution, having 
addressed the whole of the scholars, with the superintendent and 
teachers once, and attended the recitations of three different classes, 
at many different times afterward. 

Second-month 2. — Mercury this morning eisjht decrees below 
zero ; beautifully clear. A good deal of snow on the ground. 
Firewood $2.75 to $3.00 the cord. 

This date is our wedding-day, thirty-six years ago. 

5th. — For about six weeks past, the weather has been unusually 
cold. Mercury on the 3d, twenty degrees below zero ; 1th, twenty- 
six degrees below zero ; and on this morning, twenty-two degrees 
below zero. 

We have deep sympathy with our dear William and Sarah and 
their family, now in Kansas, on account of the dangers of the pres- 
ent unsettled state of public affairs, and their privations and expos- 
ures in that new country. 

19th. — We have received letters from our dear William in Kan- 
sas ; he and his family left their home from an apprehension of 
violence from the ;; Ruffians ; ' of Missouri, and went to Friends' 
Shawnee mission station ; and then, after remaining there for a few 
days, returned back home through deep snow, and much exposure. 
But he writes cheerfully, which is a comfort to us. 



146 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1856. 

20th. — Decease of Rebecca Winder, daughter of John Pool. 
Preparative Meeting, Samuel Bonine present. 
Moses Beede of Rhode Island, now on a religious visit in these 
parts, obtained the unity and concurrence of our last Monthly 
Meeting to visit the families belonging thereto. Having proceeded 
in this engagement until nearly through it, he has been absent in 
order to attend the Quarterly Meetings at Miami and West Branch, 
but has now returned to this neighborhood. 

The weather has continued steadily cold, but now appears fine, 
and more like becoming milder. Much snow is still on the 
ground. 

Third-month 8. — The weather still remains severely cold ; there 
is much snow on the ground. 

Attended Spiceland Quarterly Meeting — Moses Beede also in at- 
tendance. 

31st. — We have liad no rain since soon after the middle of the 
Twelfth-month last. The weather is milder than it was awhile past, 
but is still cold for the season. Snow not all gone yet; I can not 
remember of ever having known so long a time without rain. It 
is healthy, generally. 

Fourth-month 2. — This morning we have rain. 
During the last month, and for some time before, I have been 
closely engaged in the every-day business of my office. I can say 
very little as to my spiritual condition. Very deep have been the 
impressions at many times, of the plagues and evils of my heart ; 
and very earnest have been my cries to the Father of mercies and 
God of all power that he would help me through Jesus Christ, my 
Lord, to overcome all corruption and wrong disposition, and to 
come into the experience, more thoroughly, of that complete re- 
demption from ail sin, which is by Christ Earnest have been my 
prayers that I might set a better example of the real Christian in 
my daily walk, and in all my business intercourse with others. 
But even after all my prayers and all my good intentions, I have 
had very often to deplore my exceeding weakness, and my many 
frailties, and so many errors from a thorough Christian life, as to 
make me feel low indeed. My intercessions are earnest that Christ 
will save me ; and even in my lowest times my faith is not all gone; 
but I feel, with great anxiety, my deficiency in that close and unre- 
mitted " walk with God," and all that continued evidence of his par- 



1856.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 147 

doning mercy and love, that I could desire. 0, Lord ! blot out, in 
thy mercy, all my sins for Christ's sake ; help me to love thee 
truly, and to walk in thy love and thy truth ; keep me out of temp- 
tation, and deliver me from evil, as in thy goodness and fatherly 
care, thou mayest see best for me ; and bring me, through complete 
redemption, into the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

Our boarding-school has been attended by about one hundred and 
twenty-five students, during the session just closed. David Hunt, 
superintendent, Elizabeth Hopkins, matron ; Wm. Haughton, Wm. 
Morgan, Joseph Moore, Sarah Morgan and Josephine Quinby, 
teachers ; Alethia Coffin, assistant in the nursery and domestic de- 
partment. I have been taking an interest in promoting a more 
efficient course of scriptural instruction by visits to the school at 
large, and in classes, and before the committee. A kind regard has 
been had toward my suggestions, and I believe, now that the session 
has come to its close, that there has been considerable substantial 
improvement in this valuable and necessary part of education. 

My little work of " Scripture Exercises on Genesis," is in course 
of being stereotyped, but is not yet out. 

13th. — Our First-day school for Scriptural instruction, was 
opened at Whitewater this morning for the summer. One hundred 
and five scholars in attendance. 

Fifth-month 10. — Moaes Beede has returned from the west, and 
is quite sick at Jeremiah Hadley's. 

Nathan Pike of New Garden, attended on last Monthly Meeting, 
with a minute of unity, and has since visited most of the families 
of Friends in Richmond, and a few in the neighborhood. His visit 
has been satisfactory, I believe. 

The news of peace in Europe between Russia and the allied 
powers of Turkey, England, France, etc., has reached us, and is 
now fully confirmed. 

17th. — Spring, though long delayed, is now fully come; the 
weather is not yet hot, but is delightful. After much dry weather, 
we now have rain. Many of the fruit trees, vines, etc., have been 
killed by the great severity of the past winter. 

Morrison, Blanchard & Co. having purchased the north-east cor- 
ner of Main and Pearl streets, are now about building a new bank- 
ing house on the corner. 

We hear of the decease of John Wilbur, the leader of the dis- 



148 LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. [1856. 

turbances among Friends in New England, on the 1st of this 
month. 

There is much difficulty in Kansas, arising from a desire on the 
part of Missourians, and others favorable to slavery, to introduce 
and establish slavery in that territory. There is much political 
commotion throughout the country, on the same account. 

Seventh-month 10. — I find that considerable time has passed away 
since my last entry. I have been about home, busily engaged at 
my office most of the time. By the favor of Providence we have 
been blessed in our family with a good share of health, and that 
blessing is extensively enjoyed in these parts by the public generally. 

Our friend Asenath Clark, and her companion Beulah M. Carter, 
came here, in the course of a religious visit, in the latter part of 
the Fifth-month. My wife and self went with them to New Garden 
Quarterly Meeting, on the 23d and 24th. Returning to Richmond, 
they went westward; but came back again to attend our Quarterly 
Meeting, arriving; at our house, Sixth-month 5. 

Our Meeting for Sufferings — Sixth -month 5 — was largely at- 
tended ; among other business, several memorials were read, in 
which I had taken a part in abridging and compiling. The abridg- 
ments appeared to be very satisfactory to the meeting. 

Our Quarterly Meeting was largely attended ; and was a pleasant 
season of mingling together. We had in attendance from other 

o o c 

parts, Asenath Clark, as above-mentioned ; Jonah Hole, from 
Alum Creek, and Jeremiah Hadley, from Whitelick, with minutes. 

Our daughter Hannah Amelia has been absent since my last 
entry, making a visit to her sisters, Caroline and Mary, in Ohio. 

Our First-day school has been progressing to pretty good satis- 
faction: the average attendance has been about one hundred. 
Truly an interesting company. May we be helped to go out and 
come in rightly before them. 

On looking back over the Monthly Meeting's records about First- 
day schools, I see the first effort in which the meeting took a part, 
by appointing a committee to attend to the subject, was made in the 
Twelth-month, 1833. Early in 1834, a school was opened by a 
committee appointed for the purpose. In the Eleventh- month, it 
was suspended, for the winter; then resumed in the Fourth-month, 
1835 ; in the Eighth-month it was discontinued and was no^t re- 
sumed again until the Fourth-month, 1839 ; since which time 



1856.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 149 

it has been continued each summer, with a gradual but con- 
stant increase in attendance. Each fall it has been suspended, 
and resumed again in the spring. lb the summer of 1855, one 
hundred and thirty-six names were entered on the list of students 
(teachers and committee not included), of which one hundred and 
nine were members of our religious Society, and twenty-six were 
not. The average attendance was about ninety. 

My wife joined several other members of a committee of our 
Yearly Meeting in a visit to the Alum Creek Quarterly Meeting, 
held at Grilead in last month, with reference to annexing that meet- 
ing to the Ohio Yearly Meeting. It seems probable at this time 
that such an annexation may be made. 

Eighth-month 7. — We hear of the removal, b} T death, on 29th 
ultimo, of our venerable and beloved friend Richard Mott, of New 
York, who departed this life at an advanced age, having been long 
a father and an acceptable leader among his people. He was buried 
at Burlington, New Jersey, at which place, not long ago, his valua- 
ble wife, Abigail Mott, an excellent wonian, authoress of " Mott's 
Sketches/' was buried. At this place was the residence of our be- 
loved friend Stephen Grellet, who also died and was buried in the 
Eleventh-month last. The decease, very recently, of our friend 
Enoch Lewis, of Philadelphia, editor of "Friends' Review," should 
also be mentioned. These were fathers and Elders in the church, 
who have, I believe, all died in the faith, and their memory is blessed. 

18th. — After a long drought, we have a most refreshing rain 
to-day. Great should be our thankfulness for this favor, so valuable. 

Our First-day school for Scriptural instruction has been doing- 
pretty well this summer — attended by eighty to over one hundred 
children and young persons. 

19th. — We have a great political stir in and about town to-day. 
Cassius M. Clay, of Kentucky, is in attendance, and has made a 
speech to a large audience. The excitement grows strong between 
the two political parties, in promoting the claims of their respective 
candidates for President of the United States. The Democratic party- 
are desirous to elect James Buchanan, of Pennsylvania, as Presi- 
dent; while the Republican party, wishing to stay the further spread 
of slavery upon new territory, are desirous to elect John C. Fre- 
mont as President. 
s Ninth-month 5. — I very often think of Eternity. I endeavor to 



150 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1856. 

bring my mind to contemplate on its reality; on its nearness at 
hand; on its scenes, and on my own condition in relation to it. If 
I could be satisfied that my prayers would be heard, that my long- 
ings would be gratified, that my sins would be pardoned, and my 
soul and body purified before G-od, it seems to me that my greatest 
wishes and ends would be accomplished, and my joy unspeakable 
and eternal. 

In a dream, about this time, I saw myself on my final trial for 
eternity ; my anxiety was exceeding great, beyond the possibility 
of expression; my sins, insincerity and unfaithfulness were very 
awful, and came near to balancing everything that could appear in 
my favor ; but the divine and eternal verdict was finally given 
barely in my favor ; I was " scarcely saved," yet I was saved ; I was 
conducted by one whose office appeared to be to attend to that busi- 
ness, into a seat on the side of glory ; I remember seeing* another 
person, about the same in situation as myself, at the same time ; we 
were told that we might sit there awhile and rejoice ; and such was 
the 'exceeding joy that thrilled my whole man, soul, body, spirit, 
and pervaded every member, that an issue of suppressed joy and 
praise involuntarily went from me, and from the other person like 
me. Not a particle of evil, of stain, or of fear remained, but our 
joy was perfect, in fullness. The dream left my whole soul and body 
in a thrill and ecstasy of joy, delight, and praise, yet with a very 
strong sense that I had only just escaped, and the awfulness of a 
contrary decision. I had no view of the general judgment of all 
mankind ; the person who conducted us to our happy seats, I ap- 
prehended to be an officer, in the court of my judge, and who was 
perfectly cognizant of all my state, and of all my thoughts ; but I 
had no view or recollected apprehension of a Judge, in sight, upon 
a throne, or otherwise. This seemed to be rather understood and 
known by me than visibly manifested to me. 

I know this is a dream; but is a vivid one, and appears to be full 
of meaning. May I bear it in remembrance, and apply it; and 
may my diligence, sincerity, and earnestness, be brightened and in- 
creased. Christ Jesus is my watchword ; it is his I desire to be ; 
I can not endure the thought of any other termination of my 
hopes. 

In my dream, I saw myself as I am, with body and members ; 



1856.] LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. 151 

mortality of course had left me; but I have no recollection of 
thinking on the subject. 

I wish to give just that weight and importance to dreams to which 
they are entitled, neither more nor less; but I am satisfied of this, 
that there are many dreams very significant and teaching. 

I remember yet, with a tolerable degree of clearness, a sublime 
prospect which was given to me in a dream, or vision of the night, 
about the year 1832, of the general Kesurrection, and approach of 
the great day of general Judgment. Our family at that time con- 
sisted of myself, and wife, and four children, the oldest and young- 
est of which were daughters, the others sons. I saw ourselves sit- 
uated in a beautiful cottage dwelling, surrounded by delightful 
scenery ; the yard, and grounds around were livingly green ; all 
the earth seemed as it were animated with beauty and cheerfulness; 
the heavens above were perfectly clear and brilliant, the sky hav- 
ing itSj deep and lively blue ; the sun was uncommonly glorious, 
and shone with rays as clear and uninterrupted as could be ima- 
gined. From some remarkable sound, or summons not now clearly 
recollected, our whole family left the cottage on a tiptoe of surprise 
and great wonder; we all stood together in the beautiful yard near 
the door ; the sun was just at the western horizon, shining with un- 
clouded brightness, ready to go down in a few minutes ; all crea- 
tion was still and breathless, as if knowing what was at hand ; a 
great and wonderful movement was visible in the eastern sky ; the 
archangel, with his trumpet, was distinctly visible in the eastern 
sky, about as high as the sun is at nine o'clock in the morning; he 
was gently ascending, as the sun does ; the sound of his trumpet 
was distinctly audible ; he was attended by a countless multitude 
in the heavens who followed him : he was calling the living and the 
dead to judgment. Our souls were swallowed up in amazement, 
and as it were lost in the greatness of the scene ; we were sensible 
that our time was at hand ; a few moments more, and we should 
ascend to meet the Lord in the air, and join the countless mutitude ; 
a sense of deep mingled fear, joy and delight ran through our whole 
souls and bodies ; we were all to go, soon, very soon; and the time 
grew nearer and nearer as we watched, and were lost in wonder, and 
the greatness of the scene. Our youngest daughter, a lovely child 
of about one year old, first took flight — I saw ber rise and ascend 



152 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1856. 

toward the company in the air (she was nearest ready for heaven) ; 
and toe were expecting our time in a few moments, when I awoke 
with a thrilling sense of the scene, still pervading my whole man. 
Language is entirely incapable of conveying, even faintly, the thril- 
ling glory, the unspeakable power and magnitude, and the sublime 
majesty and calm and holy greatness of the scene. No vision ever 
seemed to me more like vivid reality; and although more than 
twenty-four years have passed away since it appeared to me, the 
scene it yet lively in my recollection. 

18th. — Our dear friend Samuel Test departed this life this morn- 
ino-, at a good age of more than eighty years. I have had an inti- 
mate and affectionate acquintance with him for nearly thirty years. 
Tenth-month 18. — Our Yearly Meeting has been large. Fewer 
cases of detention by sickness than usual, were reported. Some 
estimated the public attendance on First-day at ten thousand ; this, 
however, is uncertain. There was a large meeting held outside the 
house as well as inside, both in the forenoon and afternoon. The 
business of the Yearly Meeting was conducted in a good degree of 
harmony, with the exception that the large debts made on account 
of the boarding-school, made laborious work. Moses Beede, Philip 
(>. Dorland, Asenath Clark, Abigail Hanson, Mary Ann Fisher, 
Mary B. Pinkham, and Bridget Haight, were in attendance. Our 
Alum Creek Quarterly Meeting was given up to Ohio Yearly Meet- 
ing; and it appears to be now fairly settled that the new Western 
Yearly Meeting, at Plainfield, is to be opened in 1858. This year is 
the thirtieth that I have served the Yearly Meeting as clerk. I have 
felt the weight of this important service, very deeply. I believe 
that through great kindness and mercy, a good Providence has , 
helped me. ^ 

We have had much deep feeling for our dear William and Sarah 
and their family in Kansas, as well as for the other Friends in that 
territory, during the civil war which has lately been permitted to 
exist in that beautiful but politically disturbed country. William 
and his family, and several of their associates left their homes in 
the Eio-ht-month, and removed across the river into the State of 
Missouri, temporarily, for greater safety to their persons and prop- 
erty, for about three weeks, returning in the Ninth-month. The 
citizens of Missouri, where they stopped, treated them respectfully 



1856.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 153 

and kindly. We were greatly surprised, and made joyful by the 
appearance of our dear William, just before the late Yearly Meet- 
ing ; and comforted by his stay with us for about two weeks. He 
is now gone back, and our earnest desires for their preservation 
continue. 

Asenath Clark and Moses Beede went immediately homeward 
after the close of the Yearly Meeting. 
11 



154 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1856. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

Indiana Bible Association of Friends — New Year — Visit to Kansas — 
Western Yearly Meeting — Indiana Yearly Meeting. 

Eleventh-month 17. — This date does not pass over, without giving 
me cause for the most serious reflection, it being my birth-day. I 
am fifty-eight years old to-day ; gratitude is due from me to the 
good Giver for my good health, and the energies, physical and men- 
tal yet granted to me. 

Twelfth-month 1. — Our friend Hannah Peirson, of the State of 
New York, residing temporarily at Indianapolis, is engaged in a 
religious visit to the meetings and families in our Quarterly Meet- 
ing. My dear wife goes with her in part of the service. 

We have had much dry weather this season ; the fall has had less 
rain than usual, and the weather has not been severely cold. 

6th. — Our Quarterly Meeting was large for the season. Our 
friends Wni. and Ann Kenworthy made returns of their certificates, 
after a long and satisfactory visit to New England. Abigail Han- 
son and her husband Timothy Hanson, in attendance. 

7th. — At eight o'clock p. m., our stable was destroyed by fire. A 
large number assembled to witness the conflagration, and to render 
assistance. 

Our dear children Wm. H. and Caroline E. Ladd, and Eli and 
Mary C. Johnson, are with us. 

23d. — Last night at nine o'clock P. m., the mercury went down to 
eight degrees below zero at our house, their being considerable wind. 
At five o'clock A. m. this morning, the degree was five below zero. 
The coldest night we have had this winter. 

My dear wife is still accompanying Hannah Peirson. They have 
visited the families of Whitewater and Chester, and are now engaged 
among those of Hopewell. 

25th. — My wife returned to-day. H. P. has gone home, her visit 
being accomplished. 

We have very fine winter weather, cold but moderate. 



[1856. LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 155 

I have been reading Lieuts. Herndin and Gibbons' account of 
their travel across South America, exploring the country watered 
by the Amazon, and its tributaries. 

We are also reading this winter, Dr. Kane's narrative of his sec- 
ond explorations in the Arctic regions, in search of Sir John 
Franklin. The account is filled with sad interest, intermixed as it 
is, with so much novelty, and so much of disaster. 

We also read the Journal of Margaret Woods ; Gurney's 
Thoughts on Habit and Discipline, and other interesting religious 
matter. 

A chapter daily of the Bible, at the breakfast-table, continues to 
afford us interest, instruction, edification and comfort. 

The business of the Citizens' Bank has increased so largely, that 
more of that of the branch bank has fallen upon me. I have been 
very busy. 

31st. — The charter of our bank, for discounting and circulating 
privileges, now expires. I have been engaged in the bank ever 
since it was opened in 1834, now over twenty-two years. To-day, 
I close it. The next two years, I expect, if able, to be engaged in 
settling up the affairs of the bank. 

The new bank of the State goes into operation on the 2d of next 
month. Our son Charles is cashier. 

First-month 1, 1857. — I have been moving the furniture, etc., of 
our oifice up stairs, where I am to be occupant, in closing up the 
affairs of the bank. 

First-month 2. — The new bank was opened to-day, with fair pros- 
pects. I feel rather singular in my new office, but we have a com- 
fortable apartment, and I feel a pleasure in the idea of being released 
from many cares which have heretofore rested upon me. I expect 
labor and cares where I am, but look for a decided abatement of 
both, which, it seems to me, will be very grateful to me. 

16th. — Getting along pretty well, and I feel in a good degree com- 
fortable. 

Our son, Eli Johnson, is gone to Kansas, and elsewhere in the 
west, on a journey of exploration. His wife, our dear Mary, is 
staying with us during his absence. It is very pleasant to us to 
have her company. He left on the first instant. 

23d. — This morning the mercury went down in our thermometer 
to eighteen degrees below zero ; yesterday it was sixteen, decidedly 



156 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1857. 

tlie coldest weather, so far, of this winter; but we have had a good 
deal of cold, pretty steady, not so variable as at some times. 

Second-month 22. — Since the cold weather above noted, we have 
had a time of mild soft weather. The ice has been, generally, bro- 
ken up in this climate, and the rivers Ohio, Mississippi and Missouri 
have become well supplied with water and open for navigation. 

Third-month 3. — Our son, Eli Johnson, returned from Kansas 
this morning in good health. Quite glad to hear a good report of 
our children and other relations in that country. 

To-day I have heard of the decease of my cousin Elihu Coffin, 
of New Garden, in North Carolina, which occurred on the tenth of 
last month. 

4th. — This is the last day of the present Congress, and the day 
on which the President, newly elected, James Buchanan, and Vice 
President, John C. Breckenridge, receive their offices. 

Fourth-month 6. — Since last date I have been engaged in my new 
office; the location is comfortable, and the business is not so press- 
ing as formerly. 

Our dear children, Eli and Mary C. Johnson, have arrived here r 
on their way to Kansas, to spend the summer, and expect to go for- 
ward to-morrow. 

The rowdy young men who are supposed to havo set fire to our 
stable, and to other buildings in town, have had a trial, and have ul- 
timately been permitted, by consent, to bail, under engagement to 
leave the State to return no more. The impression of their guilt is 
very strong, but the evidence is not entirely positive. 

Our friend, John L. Eddy, who has been traveling for about 
three months past among Friends in the western part of this State, 
has returned, and he attended our meeting yesterday, and was ex- 
tensively engaged in labor. Had an appointed meeting at the 
Methodist meeting-house, in Richmond, at half past seven P. M. 

The weather has been dry and mild for some time past — but 
yesterday and to-day it is stormy and cold. Snow, with thermome- 
ter fifteen degrees and high wind. 

■„ It now seems probable that the "Atlantic Telegraph" Line, 
which was begun some time ago, will soon be completed. If suc- 
ful, this will open a telegraph communication between this country 
and England. 



1857.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 157 

The Ohio and Mississippi railroad, by which the connection be- 
tween Cincinnati and St. Louis will be made more direct, seems 
likely soon to be prepared for travel. 

The pro-slavery territorial legislature of Kansas has adjourned, 
after passing some exceedingly bad laws, favoring their objects in 
planting slavery in that fine territory. 

Charles Dickinson, George Dickinson and Thomas Newby and their 
families, have recently gone forward to settle in that country. 

I have commenced reading "Robinson's Palestine," which ap- 
pears likely to interest me much. 

Our boarding-school was attended by about one hundred and six- 
ty students in the winter session. I visited the school, frequently, 
for the purpose of encouraging and assisting in Scriptural instruc- 
tion. A very interesting collection of young people. The number 
is much smaller, as yet, in the present session, a little under sixty. 

Fifth-month 1 — The weather has remained very cool for the sea- 
son, for a month or more past, but is now milder, with a most 
refreshing rain. 

Our First-day school was re-opened on the twelfth ultimo, with 
eighty-nine in attendance, and favorable prospects for an orderly 
school. We had one hundred and six last First-day. 

Our beloved friend Jared Patterson, an aged minister, and partic- 
ular friend of mine, departed this life on Sen T enth-day, the twenty- 
fifth of last month, at his residence at Walnut Ridge. His end is 
considered to be entirely resigned and peaceful. 

A most affectionate letter received from my dear friend Benjamin 
Seebohm informs me that he has completed the translation of our 
Tract on Christian Doctrines into the German language, according 
to our request. 

4th. — A cold north-east rain with considerable wind. 

Our new stable, built on the same foundation of that which was 
destroyed by fire last Twelfth-month, is now nearly completed. 

We had an attendance of one hundred and ten at our First-day 
school yesterday. The order is excellent, and the whole scene is 
•exceedingly interesting. I feel, very deeply, the responsibility- 
with a strong desire that the school may be conducted religiously 
and weightily and profitably to both students and teachers and all 
■concerned. I have no doubt that this will be the case if we labor 
with honest perseverence and dwell under a proper concern. I was 



158 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1857. 

at the boarding-school at half-past three p. m. and read Scripture 
with the girls. 

31st — The weather has continued remarkablycool for the season, 
up to the present date, and vegetation has been so late and back- 
ward, that provisions for animals have run short and the prices be- 
come high. Corn is 75 cents the bushel, or [over; oats 60 cents 
and upward; Hay $18 to $20 the ton; Irish potatoes $1 25 to $2 
the bushel ; wheat $1 50 to $1 75 ; nour $7 and upward the barrel ; 
good beef-steak 12J cents the pound ; butter 22 to 25 cents ; sugar 
double the old prices, etc. etc. We have had fine rains and the 
grass is now coming forward rapidly. 

To-day we had one hundred students in attendance at our First- 
day school : on last First-day we had one hundred and twenty-one. 

Sixth-month 4. — Meeting for Sufferings. Well attended. The 
members in Alum Creek Quarterly Meeting did not attend, being- 
considered no longer as members, that meeting being now attached 
to Ohio Yearly Meeting. 

5th and 6th. — Quarterly Meeting. The business was transacted 
in a good degree of brotherly feeling. George Carter and wife, and 
Ann Hoskins, present, with minutes. 

7th. — First-day. — A large meeting. At our Scriptural school, 
this morning, if e had one hundred and twenty-seven in attendance ; 
and many visiters. 

Basil Brightwell died on the fifth, and was buried this afternoon. 

8th. — I received the appointment of special administrator to 
the estate of Basil Brightwell. 

13th. — Attended Westgrove Monthly Meeting, at Fairfield, on a 
committee of education and schools. 

14th. — We were visited at our Scriptural school by James Ayarg, 
secretary of the American Sunday School Union, who made some 
interesting remarks to the school. Clementina Noyes was also pre- 
sent, recently a Missionary in Hindostan, and she gave the school 
some interesting statements concerning the Hindoos and the mis- 
sion, and recited the Lord's Prayer in the Hindoo language. 

In the afternoon, she went with us to the boarding-school. 

17th. — We have continued copious rains. Last season was de- 
cidedly dry ; this season is decidedly wet so far. Crops of small 
grain and grass look fine. 

29th and 30th. — We had a pleasant visit from George C. and Del- 



1857.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 



159 



phini Mendenhall, of North Carolina. They have been in Ohio, 
having brought out to that State for freedom thirteen slaves. They 
have now set free in all about fifty, and have thirty yet at home. 

Having taken, jointly with Jesse P. Siddall, the office of admin- 
istrator to the estate of Basil Brightwell, I am now engaged in set- 
tling business connected therewith, in addition to my regular busi- 
ness in the bank. 

There is still much cool weather for the season, with rains fre- 
quently. The country is exceedingly beautiful. 

Eighth-montkl 17. — We are still blessed with a good share of 
health, demanding our constant gratitude. 

Our children, Eli and Mary C. Johnson, returned from Kansas this 
evening. They appear well, and we received them joyfully. 

25th. — This week is the State Teachers' Association in Richmond. 
It is pretty numerously attended. We have for our guests, Eli- 
phalet Pray Cole, and his wife, Pamelia, from Bloomington. in this 
State. They have a female academy there. We have been much 
interested with their company. We also had a call from John M. 
Mclntyre, of Indianapolis, agent of the American S. S. Union, in 
whose acquaintance we took much interest. 

Ninth-month 3d. — The Ohio Life and Trust Co. has failed, and 
since its failure several banking-houses in New York and Cincin- 
nati have suspended. It is a time of much excitement and alarm 
in matters of finance and business. The season continues very fine. 
There is promise of excellent crops of corn. 

Tenth-month 16. — Since my last date, another of our large annual 
assemblies, our Yearly Meeting, has been held. It has been as 
usual, very large. Before another year shall roll around, the new 
Western Yearly Meeting is to be set up and held ; and it is thought 
that at Whitewater it will never be so large again. We had in ac- 
ceptable attendance Robert and Sarah Lindsay, Priscilla Green and 
Mary Nicholson, from England ; John Header, and Eli and Sybil 
Jones, and Charles F. Coffin, sen., from New England; Wm. Henry 
Chase, from New York State, and Joseph Brown, from Canada* 
The business of the meeting was conducted in much harmony, and 
there has been evidence of a deep feeling of brotherly love. Such 
seasons are to be highly prized ; the comfort and enjoyment is more 
than we can express. We had interesting meetings on Sixth-day 
evening and First-day evening, to consider what further we can do 



160 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1857. 

toward the circulation of the Holy Scriptures among all classes, and 
in all countries : the result was the formation of the " Indiana Bible 
Association of Friends.'' This is a cause in which many hearts are 
warmed; and devout prayer ascends, I have no doubt, from many, 
that the Divine blessing may rest upon and prosper our labors. 

Elijah Coffin here casually remarks upon an important 
subject, which, from other sources than his private mem- 
oranda, it is known that he had contemplated upon for a 
long period, with a deep concern resting upon his mind, 
that with Friends as a Society, greater activity and more 
energetic measures should be taken for the dissemination 
of the Holy Scriptures. Constrained by the love of Christ, 
he was first to stimulate to action the large body of Friends 
there assembled, expressing his convictions, that in view of 
the Divine blessings that we receive as a people, " we should 
enter upon the labor ourselves," that " our duty is plain," 
and that we shall not stand clear in the day of righteous 
judgment, when the secrets of all hearts shall be made 
known, if we neglect or refuse to do good to our fellow- 
men, when it is so plainly in our power. 

" Impressed with the inestimable value of the Holy Scrip- 
tures," he had for many years personally participated in 
the spread of the Gospel truths " among all classes of 
people in our own and other countries," by co-operating 
with the American Bible Society and its auxiliaries, and 
with the Bible Association of Friends of Philadelphia and 
its confederates in the west, but his anxious desire that his 
particular Yearly Meeting should be more actively engaged 
in the work, led him to press the subject upon the atten- 
tion of his friends, that united action should be taken, 
which resulted, as has been seen, in the formation of the 
Indiana Bible Association of Friends. 

Nor did he confine his attention merely to the limits of 



1857. ] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 161 

his own Yearly Meeting ; his ardent interest in the subject 
led him to devote much time in the later period of his life, 
in voluntarily attending all the Yearly Meetings on the 
American continent (with two exceptions), and many of the 
subordinate meetings, with the especial view 7 to advocate a 
more extended system for the diffusion of the Holy Scrip- 
tures, by Friends in their different localities. His exertions 
for the furtherance of this object were indefatigable until 
the close of his life, and the compiler of this volume will 
long remember how earnestly he labored to prepare for 
publication the Fourth Annual Report of the Indiana Bible 
Association (for 1861), not many weeks before the close of 
his earthly labors, at a time when he struggled against his 
own feelings of weakness and distress to perform the task, 
and was so enfeebled by disease, that he frequently ex- 
hausted his small remnant of physical strength. 
He continues his account of the Yearly Meeting : 

The close of the Yearly Meeting was particularly solemn. 

There is great reason to bless the good name of the Lord for his 
kindness and mercy, and his many favors to us at this time. 

John Meader and Joseph Brown went toward Iowa, Kobert and 
Sarah Lindsay toward Baltimore, and thence southward. Chas. E. 
Coffin, sen., designed to attend Baltimore Yearly Meeting, and so did 
Eli and Sybil Jones, but the latter having proceeded to Cincinnati, 
were detained there several days by the indisposition of Sybil. 

Eleventh-month 13. — My wife and myself set off this morning on 
a visit to our children, William H. and Caroline E. Ladd, in Ohio. 
We arrived at their house soon after dark. It afforded us much 
joy to meet again together. We found them and their four fine 
children all in excellent health. 

15th. — Attended their meeting. 

The weather became unsettled, and rain fell almost every day in 
the week following ; and toward the last of the week it became 
much colder. The roads being frozen up, were so rough that it 
was thought imprudent to attempt to attend their Quarterly Meeting 
on Seventh-day. 



lt>2 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1858. 

We returned home on Second-day, the 23d. 

25th. — It is remarkably cold for the season ; the mercury sunk 
down to five degrees below zero this morning. 

Twelfth-month 5. — We had an agreeable Quarterly Meeting. 

An auxiliary to the Indiana Bible Association of Friends was 
organized on the 4th. 

8th. — Eichard and Susan B. Pedrick set off on their religious 
visit to Jamaica this morning. 

13th. — Micajah Henley died this morning, about one o'clock. 

14th. — Funeral of Micajah Henley ; large attendance. 

The weather mild and pleasant, for the season, for a week past. 

A distressing state of financial embarrassment has overspread 
the country for sixty days past, causing suspension of specie pay- 
ments by nearly or quite all of the eastern and southern banks. 
The New York and New England banks resumed on the 12th inst. 

First-month 2, 1858. — The rapid flight of time is very frequently 
a subject of thought, and of very serious reflection. The coming 
in of another new year brings up this subject vividly to our atten- 
tion. Another circumstance is added to-day. We have just 
followed to the grave an amiable young woman, who, having just 
come to maturit}^, has been removed by death — Susan Barnard, 
daughter of Paul Barnard. The funeral was large ; and many 
seem to feel the occurrence much ; and we may hope that the 
warning which it o-ives will have an instructive effect on her 
associates and others. 

The weather is remarkably mild for the season. 

Affairs in Kansas still much unsettled. 

I have made much progress in settling and closing the business 
of the branch of the State bank. The debts to the bank are now 
reduced from $500,000 to less than $100,000, and the outstanding 
bank notes from $333,000 to less than $40,000. 

Second-month 3. — It has now been a month since my mem- 
orandums above. Although by Divine Providence our lives are 
continued much in the same course, yet many great and solemn 
changes have taken place with some. In the weekly announce- 
ment of deaths, I see the names of several with whom I had 
intimate and affectionate acquaintance. And we may reflect, too, 
that the distance between us and eternity is now one month 
shorter. 



1858.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 163 

On the morning of the 27th ult., our young friend Geo. Harvey, 
son of William Harvey, departed this life, and was buried on the 
28th. His decease was not unexpected ; and it is comfortably 
hoped that he came to his end in the confidence of faith and in 
peace. 

At our Monthly Meeting, on the 24th, an address to our Friends 
in Kansas was adopted, and the business of the meeting was agree- 
ably transacted ; but at the close, the cause of the Indiana Bible 
Association of Friends being opened to men and women Friends, 
with partition open by consent, some severe opposition appeared, 
and a discussion followed which was very painful. 

.Yesterday, the 2d, was our marriage day, in 1S20. We look 
back to the scenes of the day with vivid interest. Gratefulness 
should ever pervade our hearts when we think of our union, and 
also for the blessings with which a good Providence has seen fit to 
favor us. 

After several weeks of mild weather, we now have it a little 
colder, with snow ; but not severe yet. 

5th.— Mercury at zero this morning; the coldest we have had 
since about the 26th of Eleventh-month last. 

22d. — Mercury ten degrees below zero this morning; the coldest 
we have had. It was minus about six or seven on the 26th of 
Eleventh-month last. 

23d. — Mercury six degrees below zero this morning. We have 
fine weather, with snow on the ground. 

I have been engaged at intervals, for a considerable time past, in 
reading the great work by Dr. Edward Robinson, entitled " Biblical 
Researches in Palestine,'* etc. I have been deeply interested in the 
details. 

The panic in business affairs seems now pretty well over, and 
commerce is again resuming its usual course. The crops of the 
year 1857 were generally very fine; the prices of produce generally 
have, of course, become much more moderate. Flour went up, at 
one time, to about $4.00 the hundred pounds — it is now about 
32.25 ; wheat is 75 to 90 cents per bushel ; corn is 30 to 37J cents 
per bushel; oats about 33 cents per bushel; potatoes 30 to 40 cents 
per bushel. The range of pork has been from $4.50 to 85.50 the 
hundred pouuds; yet these have not been the outside limits. The 
prices of sugars and molasses have been abated full one half; sugar 



164 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1858. 

at one time sold at 11 to 12 cents wholesale, and 14 to 16 cents 
retail ; it can now be had at 6 to 7 cents wholesale, and at retail to 
correspond. Beef has declined from last year's prices, but the 
decline has not been so large. 

By the continued blessing of a good Providence, we enjoy a 
share of excellent health; but, spiritually, many afflictions are 
permitted us to endure at this time. 

27th. — I attended Milford Monthly Meeting, much to my satis- 
faction. A request for the establishment of a Friends' Meeting 
on Fall Creek, near Stranger, in Kansas, was brought before our 
Monthly Meeting on the 24th, and there united with, and forwarded 
to the Quarterly Meeting. The same request was laid before Mil- 
ford Monthly Meeting to-day, and was acted upon in the same 
manner. At the close of the meeting, about thirty-three Friends 
gave their names as members and contributors to the Indiana Bible 
Association of Friends. 

Third-month 2. — Mercury at zero this morning. Fine weather, 
with snow on the ground. 

5th and 6th. — Our Quarterly Meeting. We had good meetings; 
business being conducted harmoniously, and good feeling prevailed. 
The request for a meeting in Kansas was granted. At the meet- 
ing of our Bible Association, on Sixth-day afternoon, general good 
feeling prevailed, and favor toward the cause. The bitter and 
afflicting opposition which has appeared in this neighborhood does 
not seem to have made much impression in other places in our 
limits, so far as appeared. 

Fifth-month 27. — Most of the time since the last date I have 
been engaged in my ordinary occupation in the bank, the affairs of 
which are now being rapidly drawn toward a close. 

The past winter was unusually mild, and an early opening of 
spring weather seemed for awhile probable ; but the weather has 
continued cool for the season nearly up to the present time, with a 
most remarkable quantity of rain. Such has been the incessant 
succession of profuse rains, that the farmers have found it difficult, 
and in many cases impracticable, to get their crops of corn planted. 
The meadows and pastures look fine. 

On Third-day the 11th instant, my dear wife set off, with a com- 
mittee of our Yearly Meeting to Iowa, on a visit to the Quarterly 
Meetings of Salem and Pleasant Plain; a journey which she has 



1858.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 165 

been enabled to perform ; and they returned on the evening of 25th 
instant, having attended to the appointment to a good degree of 



satisfaction 



General good health has prevailed in our neighborhood, and in 
the country generally, during the winter and spring. A few cases 
of small pox have occurred. 

Two new Quarterly Meetings came into the family of Quarterlies 
in our Yearly Meeting this season in Iowa, — Eed Cedar, which has 
been opened; and Western Plain, which is soon to be opened. 

I am now engaged in reading Livingstone's Travels and Discov- 
eries in Africa, which I find very interesting. I have also procured 
"The Testimony of the Rocks," and design to give it 'a careful 
perusal. 

The weather has been so cool and rainy on several First-day 
mornings, that we have not had a favorable opportunity for our 
Scriptural school at Whitewater. It has, however, been open for 
several weeks (began Fourth-month 12), and on two fair days, we 
had over one hundred in attendance. 

Sixth-month 17. — Since last date, our Meeting for Sufferings, the 
Quarterly Meeting, and other meetings usually held about that 
time, have taken place, and were in good degree satisfactory. The 
Quarterly Meeting was attended by Jeremiah Grinnell and his com- 
panion, Doctor Edmund Albertson, with minutes of their meeting at 
home. On Seventh-day evening, the 5th, we had an interesting 
Bible Meeting, which was pretty well attended considering how 
rainy the weather was. 

On the 15th we had a pleasant visit from our friends Marmaduke 
C. Cope, and Sarah his wife, and Richard Richardson and Hannah 
White Richardson, his wife, on a tour in the west. 

20th. — For some time past I have entertained the idea of making 
a visit to Kansas this year, as I think I may leave home and my 
office for a while, without any great disadvantage. My wife has 
recently had some thought of going with me, if I should go, so 
that we may make a visit together to our children and others. 

22d. — Having come fully to the conclusion to go to Kansas, we 
get off by railway, at nine o'clock A. M.; eleven o'clock forty-five 
minutes A. M. at Indianapolis ; half past three o'clock at Terre 
Haute. Lost forty-five minutes at the bayou beyond the Wabash, 
for the finishing of a repair to the bridge. 



166 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1858. 

Half past seven o'clock at Paris, Illinois. Supper at Shelbyville. 

23d. — At Alton at four o'clock a. m. Took boat down the Mis- 
sissippi. At St. Louis at seven o'clock to breakfast. Left at fif- 
teen minutes past eight o'clock for Jefferson City, by the Pacific 
railroad. 

Dined at Hermann, a Swiss or German settlement. 

At Jefferson City at two o'clock p. M. Left by boat at ten o'clock 
p. M. 2-ith, 25th, 26th on the Missouri river. Arrived at Leav- 
enworth at nine o'clock P. M., 26th. 

27th — Went to brother Joel Hiatt's in the morning, and staid 
the day and night with them. We looked upon the situation of 
Leavenworth as being beautiful and well adapted for a large popu- 
lation. We passed through the fort grounds, and near the build- 
ings — the place is beautiful. The Salt Creek valley, in which 
brother Joel Hiatt resides is remarkably fertile and beautiful. The 
day was pleasantly passed in quietness with his family and John 
Broaddus'. 

28th. — Joel went with us to William H. Coffin's. We were 
deeply interested with the beautiful scenery as we went. Every 
thing was new ; all interested us. 

We found our children, William and Sarah, and their family, in 
pretty good health, although AVilliam was absent from home. It- 
was very pleasant to meet with them again. 

29th. — Passed the day principally at William's. He came home 
about noon. We were rejoiced to meet. 

30th. — Fourth-day. — To meeting. After meeting to Charles 
Dickinson's. 

Seventh-month 1. — I went to Leavenworth with William, and re- 
mained a considerable, portion of the day. Returned back in the 
evening with Benajah W. Hiatt. The routes going and returning 
were both very interesting to me. 

2d, — Went to Benajah's ; then to Jesse D. Hiatt's. Unwell in 
the evening. 

3d # — Remained about William's ; still indisposed. 

4th. — To First-day school at half past nine o'clock A. M. An 
interesting attendance of about twenty. To meeting at eleven 
o'clock. We had a comfortable little meeting. 

5th. — About William's. 

6th. — Went to Thomas Newby's ; an interesting trip. 



1858.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 167 

7th. — To Preparative Meeting. Afterward, to Eli Wilson's. 
Then to James Wilson's and Maria his wife. Azel Rogers came 
in, during the evening. 

8th. — William and I went to Lawrence. The journey nearly all 
the way across the Delaware Indian lands was interesting. Law- 
rence is said to contain about two thousand inhabitants. The lo- 
cation is well chosen ; and the valley south beautiful and very 
fertile. 

9th — Called at Samuel N. Wood's this morning. Then went on, 
by the high road south of the Kansas, to Lecompton. From Le- 
compton we crossed the Kansas, then the Grasshopper, and then 
went home through the Indian lands. 

10th. — Rested until noon. Then went to G-eorge Dickinson's. 

11th. — First- day. — To Scriptural school. Then to meeting. 
Afternoon, rest at home. 

12th. — William went to Leavenworth. I rode out to go to see 
Henry Worthington and Elizabeth his wife ; but did not get there. 
S. N. Wood and Margaret his wife called at William's. 

13th. — Rode into High »Prairie, south. Fine ride. William 
engaged in his oat harvest. 

14th. — Fourth-day. — To meeting. To Charles Dickinson's. To 
B. W. Hiatt's. 

15th. — At home. William unwell. To Hemy Worthington's. 
Called to see Doctor Robert Wood. Great thunder storm at night. 
Profuse rain continued through most of the night. 

16th. — At William's. Another great rain, with thunder last 
night. Waters extremely high. Funeral of a neighbor. The 
corpse was conveyed across Fall Creek on a raft make of rails, by 
several men who swam. William better. 

17th. — More rain last night. To Stranger Creek ; still very 
high. To Jesse D. Hiatt's and Eli Wilson's. Could not start for 
Friends' Shawnee Mission as we had intended, on account of the 
high waters. 

18th. — First-day. — To meeting after Scripture school. After- 
noon rested. Charles and Hannah Dickinson with us at William's. 

19th. — Waters lower, but not fordable. Fine day. William at- 
tending to his wheat and oats. 

20th. — Set off with William for Friends' Shawnee Mission. 
Crossed Stranger Creek. Drove most of the day across the Dela- 



168 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1858. 

ware Indian lands. Arriving at an Indian ferry at the Kansas, we 
could not cross on account of the high stage of the river. We 
turned back, under a feeling of much disappointment, to which we 
were obliged to submit, and went to the Baptist Mission among 
the Delawares, where we were kindly taken in. 

21st. — Our visit at the Baptist Mission has been very interesting 
to us. They have about sixty students, male and female, some of 
the girls nearly grown, who appear to be doing well. John Gr. 
Pratt, principal. 

Went hence to Leavenworth, where we dined and then parted 
with William, who started homeward. We went to a hotel. Our 
boat' does not go until morning. 

22d.— We left early on the boat " John D. Perry," for St. Louis, 
on our way homeward. 

23d.— On the Missouri. 

24th. — Arrived early at Jefferson City, where we left the boat 
and took the Pacific railroad. We arrived at St. Louis about thirty 
minutes past twelve. 

25th. — Left St. Louis about four o'clock p. m. and arrived at 
home next morning at about ten, thankful for the favor and pre-, 
servation which had been allowed to us, during this long journey. 

On the day of arrival I attended the Quarterly Meeting of 
our Central Book and Tract Committee, and upon succeeding 
days of that week and the next, I was busily engaged in bringing 
up the business of my office, and attending to various concerns 
which required attention. My dear wife and myself had been 
somewhat unwell in Kansas, and the weather was throughout our 
journey hot and depressing, so that we came home fatigued, and 
feeling somewhat out of health, but hoped to become better after 
having rest and refreshment for a few days. 

But on the 7th of the Eighth-month, we were both taken with 
chills and fever. We had three very sick days before the chills 
were broken off, and even after that we recovered slowly. My wife 
did not recover as soon as I did, but was six or seven weeks pretty 
much confined about house and home. I felt, however, that good 
Providence had laid the hand of affliction lightly upon us, as we 
might have suffered much more than we did. Our daughter Hannah 
Amelia was confined with illness at the same time. 

On the 28th of the Seventh-month, our son-in-law William A. 



1858.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 169 

Rambo, became unwell, and his complaint growing worse, was called 
typhoid fever. We were unable to visit him in his sickness, but he 
sank lower, and finally, on Fourth-day, the 11th of the Eighth- 
month, at about nine o'clock A. M., he expired. His funeral took 
place on the next evening, the burial being temporarily at White- 
water, was largely attended by numerous friends and acquaintances. 

A scene of this kind can not occur without bringing home deep 
reflections at once serious and awful. 

Ninth-month 20. — On the 17th inst., I left home to attend the 
new Western Yearly Meeting, to be held at Plainfield. On the 
18th, the Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders was opened and 
held to good satisfaction. The number in attendance was probably 
not less than one hundred and sixty. 

Two public Meetings for Worship were held on First-day, the 
19th, at ten o'clock A. M. and three o'clock p. m., both very large. 
And there being more than the house would hold, a meeting outside, 
largely attended, was held both forenoon and afternoon. The meet- 
ing-house is one hundred and twenty feet long, by seventy-four feet 
wide, and will receive about two thousand persons. 

I am kindly entertained at my dear friend Eleazar Bales'. 
i On this day the 20th, the Yearly Meeting was formally opened at 
eleven o'clock A. m. The attendance appeared to fill the house, and 
the occasion was a very solemn one. A committee from Indiana 
Yearly Meeting, one from Baltimore, one from New York, and one 
from Ohio, were in attendance. B. C. Hobbs was appointed clerk 
for the day, and afterward continued for the meeting. 

21st. — Meeting continues to good satisfaction. A Bible Meeting 
was held in the evening, probably five or six hundred Friends in at- 
tendance. 

22d. — Large Meetings for Worship to-day. I went to White- 
lick and attended a large meeting there. Dined at Samuel Moore's. 
In the evening returned, and attended another Bible Meeting, at 
which an association was organized. 

23d. — After a satisfactory meeting to-day, I returned home in the 
evening. It is expected that the business of the Yearly Meeting 
will be closed to-morrow. Our own Yearly Meeting is now nearly 
at hand. 

Our daughter Hannah Amelia joined with Mordecai Morris 
12 



170 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1858 

White, in laying before our Monthly Meeting on the 22d inst. pro- 
posals of marriage, to which our consent has been given. 

This is always a very serious, a very important engagement. We 
feel the anticipated loss of our dear Hannah from our family circle 
very much. 

28th. — Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders at ten o'clock A. 
M. Meeting for Sufferings at three o'clock P. m. 

Our friends Moses H. Beede, James Jones, John Scott, John W. 
Tatum, Rebecca T. Updegraff, James Van Blarcom, David H. 
Bennett, Sarah Shotwell, Thomas Smith, Daniel P. Haviland, Wm. 
R. Taber, Hannah Peirson and Daniel Barker, Ministers from other 
parts, are in attendance at the present Yearly Meeting, with a num- 
ber of Elders, as companions and otherwise. 

29th. — Yearly, Meeting for Public Worship at eleven o'clock A. m. 
Indian Committee at three o'clock P. M. Book and Tract Meeting 
at six o'clock p. M. 

30th. — Fifth-day. — Yearly Meeting for Discipline at eleven 
o'clock, largely attended, and yet perceptibly smaller I believe, than 
when our Western friends were associated with us. A good meeting. 
Many Friends with us from abroad. 

African Committee at four o'clock P. M. Education at six o'clock 

P. M. 

Tenth-month 1. — Met at ten o'clock A. M. This morning I was 
released from the Clerk's services, after thirty-one years service ; 
and Charles F. Coffin appointed clerk. The large and religious ex- 
pression of unity and sympathy with me in my past services, was 
truly affecting and humbling. The meeting caused a minute to be 
made thereon ; then proceeded to the consideration of the state 
of Society. 

The following copy of the minute which was prepared 
by one of the assistant clerks, and adopted by the Yearly 
Meeting, is the one referred to in the preceding memoran- 
dum: 

" In making this appointment we recur with satisfaction, and believe it right 
to record the feeling of unity we have with the faithful and acceptable services 
which, with Divine assistance, have for thirty-one years, been rendered by our 
beloved friend Elijah Coffin, who now retires from the table." 



1858.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 171 

Our regular family household being entertained with us this year 
is smaller than at some past times ; yet very agreeable, as follows : 
William Crossman, of Cincinnati ; Harriet Steer, David Hunt, now 
of Iowa; Daniel P. Haviland and James Congden, of State of New 
York ; John W. Tatum, and Amy Y., his wife, of Wilmington, 
Delaware ; Sarah Smiley, of Philadelphia ; Elizabeth Jones, of 
Smithfield, Ohio ; Eli and Mary 0. Johnson, and many other occa- 
sional visiters. 

Annual Bible Meeting this evening at six o'clock p. m. Largely 
attended ; probably one thousand persons present — satisfactory. 

Tenth-month 2. — The Yearly Meeting progresses to satisfaction. 

3d. — Two large meetings to-day ; one at ten o'clock a. m., the 
other at three o'clock p. m. ; and a meeting out-doors, at the same 
time. A great multitude present. 

4th and 5th. — These two days were occupied, and then the Yearly 
Meeting closed. A very solemn and tender parting. 

13th. — The winter session of our boarding-school was opened, 
with pretty good prospects. 

25th. — Central Book and Tract Committee. 

Eleventh-month 3. — This is a solemn and interesting day to us ; 
joyous to our young people. Our dear and much loved daughter, 
Hannah Amelia, was married to Mordecai Morris White of Cin- 
cinnati, and left for that city, in the evening. 



172 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1859. 



CHAPTER IX. 

Reading Circles — Death op John Allen — "Western and Indiana Yearly 
Meetings — Sabbath Schools — Visit to Washington and Eastern Cities — 
New York and New England Yearly Meetings — Journey to Iowa — In- 
diana Yearly Meeting — Visit to North Carolina Yearly Meeting. 

Eleventh-month 17. — Always an interesting date to me. This 
day I am sixty years old j the thought is very solemn. 

Twelfth-month 4th and 5th. — We had an agreeable Quarterly 
Meeting these days. Joseph Brown, of Canada, and Eli Newlin, 
of Fairfield, Ohio, in attendance. Samuel Lloyd, also, from Iowa, 
came in, and was acceptably with us. 

31st. — I have had much work lately in bringing the business of 
the State Bank of Indiana to a close. In last month and this, I 
have been to Indianapolis several times, to attend the meetings of 
the State Board. I am to-day paying out the final dividends of our 
branch bank to the stockholders. 

First-month 1, 1859. — On the 1st day of the Twelfth-month, 
1834, I opened f the door of the branch at Richmond, of the State 
Bank of Indiana. This day I close it. The charter of the bank 
ha& expired, and its business is, I hope, wound up honorably and 
profitably to the State, and the individual stockholders. 

At a final meeting of the Board of Directors, held 
Twelfth-month 24th, 1858, the following resolution was 
offered by Robert Morrisson, and adopted : 

" It is unanimously Resolved, That in consideration of the able and faithful 
services of Elijah Coffin as cashier of this branch from its first organization to 
its close, and the fidelity and promptitude with which he has discharged the 
various and important duties confided to his care, that the board embrace this 
opportunity to express upon our Minutes the high sense entertained of his offi- 
cial services and private worth." 

To this resolution Elijah Coffin responded in a grateful 
manner, expressing his thankfulness for the support he had 



1859.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 173 

always received from the various members of the board, 
and for the harmony which had always subsisted between 
the board and officers in the transaction of the various and 
important business of the bank. 

From the "Richmond Palladium," dated February 10, 
1862, containing an obituary notice of his decease, we ex- 
tract the following brief delineation of his business char- 
acter, in connection with the bank : 

• #■*'•« As an officer, he was faithful, upright and honest, and 
had in view more the interests of the bank than his own. To his 
methodical business habits and honest, careful management, may be 
attributed much of the success of that excellent institution ; the 
value of his services having been fully appreciated by the stock- 
holders and the public." 

On the close of that institution in 1859, he retired from 
active business. 

First-month 7.— According to the request of William A.Rambo, to 
be buried in his own lot, in Friends' burial-ground, near Cummins- 
villa, in the vicinity of Cincinnati, he was disinterred at White- 
water this morning, and the corpse was accompanied on railway by 
his wife, Miriam, our son Charles, and ourselves; and we were met 
by our children of Cincinnati, and several kind Friends of that city 
at Cumrninsville ; then proceeding to the burial-place, the remains 
were laid in their final resting-place. 

Afterward we went with our children and friends to the city, 
and staid with them a few days. 

The final burial of our son-in-law seemed a solemn duty, and 
brought back to our minds the consideration of his sufferings 
and death, with deep solemnity. Our dear widow-daughter now 
feels as if she had performed a duty made incumbent by the re- 
quest of her deceased husband while living. 

In the evening, attended the reading circle, where we met with 
over thirty Friends, with most of whom we were acquainted ; a 
pleasant interview. 

8th. — Seventh-day. — This evening, attended a meeting of the 



174 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1859, 

book and tract committee at Doctor Da /id Judkins'; which wa? 
interesting. 

9th. — Two meetings to-day; the first at eleven, the other at 
seven o'clock p. m. 

10th. — Second-day. — This evening, attended a Bible Meeting at 
Friends' meeting-house. An association auxiliary to the Indiana 
Bible Association of Friends was organized. About sixty mem- 
bers were obtained, and one hundred dollars subscribed. 

Beturned home on the evening of the eleventh. 

16th. — I went to-day with Enos Pray to Smyrna meeting at 
eleven ; thence to Chester, an appointed meeting at three o'clock 
P. M. Both meetings were well attended, and satisfactory. 

23d. — Clear and cold. Thermometer four degrees below zero. 

First-day school continued during this winter. There are some- 
times four classes in attendance — about twenty-five in all. 

Delivered a lecture of an hour last evening to the students and 
officers of the boarding-school, on " Business." 

Looking back, I see that the failure in the filling of grain in the 
oat crop, was greater in 1858, than at any time since my remem- 
brance. The season was wet in general, and the growth sufficiently 
large ; but a rust and a blight appeared to prevent the heads from 
filling. 

The wheat crop was also much of a failure, in a great many in- 
stances; but in others there was good wheat. So there was some 
good oats. Grass and hay were good. It was difficult to plant 
corn, on account of the extreme wet weather at the season — so the 
crop was short. Many fields were not planted at all, which were 
intended to be — the wet preventing ; but in other fields the corn 
was good, the land being such as could be tilled with less difficulty 
in wet weather. 

First-month 29. — William H. Ladd came in, in the evening, on 
his way to Illinois ; it was pleasant to receive him, and have him 
with us until Second-day morning, the 31st. 

31st. — A pleasant meeting to-day of the central book and tract 
committee — and after that, of the executive committee of Indiana 
Bible association. 

Second-month 6. — James Owen acceptably with us at meeting to- 
day. 

Delivered my third lecture on "Business " to the students of the 



1859.1 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 175 



boarding-school last evening — James Owen present. Barclay 
White very sick. 

10th. — Barclay White, son of Bethuel C. and Hannah White, 
died this morning about two o'clock. 

Our daughter Miriam and I, accompanied the sorrowing party 
with the corpse, as far as Charlotteville, and then returned. 

Third-month 4 and 5. — We had an agreeable Quarterly Meeting 
at Milford. Our friend Absalom Dennis obtained a certificate to 
visit the meetings of Friends belonging to the Yearly Meeting of 
North Carolina, and some other religious service. 

A committee was appointed by the Quarterly Meeting to visit 
the Monthly Meetings, for their help and encouragement, The 
Friends are Jacob Elliott, Daniel Williams, Elijah Coffin, John 
Miles, Jesse B. Williams, Levi Jessup, Naomi Coffin, Ann Ken- 
worthy, Rachael Bandy, Mary Jessup, Esther Gr. Dickinson. 

8th. — James Cockayne, the younger, died to-day. 

10th. — We attended the funeral. A quiet, solemn time. 

12th. — The past winter has been unusually mild, and the weather 
is now fine and spring-like, at a much earlier date than occurs in 
some years. 

I have recently read " Trench on Bible Revision/' which I have 
found interesting and informing. The subject is treated of learn- 
edly, yet moderately and with candor and fairness. 

My wife and I have been reading together of evenings, " The 
Higher Christian Life," by Doctor Boardman, and find it a lively, 
experimental, and instructive work. We do not agree, of course, 
with his views on war, and on some other minor points; but esteem 
his work highly, as pervaded with a high-toned spirit of vital 
Christianity. 

Several able essays in the " Bibliotheca Sacra," have not failed to 
interest me deeply, upon a careful reading recently. 

A "reading circle" was formed on the 24th of the Twelfth- 
month last, composed of over forty Friends, who have met mostly 
at the house of Charles F. Coffin, and listened to an hour's reading 
with interest and edification. The have also met once each at Paul 
Barnard's, Matthew Barker's, and Achilles Williams', and are to 
meet at Clayton Hunt's. The Memoirs of Hannah C. Backhouse 
have had the first attention, being a recent work, and has not failed 
to be deeply interesting. Meeting on Sixth-day evening, generally, 



176 LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. [1859* 

at seven o'clock p. m. Reading matter and readers selected by a 
committee. 

A historical association, for essays and lectures on religious and 
literary subjects, has been recently organized, and a constitution 
adopted on the evening of the 8th instant. I have attended one 
preliminary meeting, and given in my name as a member. We 
hope to have a goodly number of intelligent young people con- 
nected with the association, and that good may come of it. 

I have been for some time past engaged in preparing a volume 
of " Scripture Exercises," for the highest classes of students, to 
follow Matthew, Mark and Genesis, embracing the gospels of Luke 
and John in harmony, with copious references to other parts of 
Scripture, particularly to Matthew and Mark; also, with explana- 
tory notes. I have already progressed through nearly or quite half 
the work, and propose to finish it, if life and ability shall be af- 
forded. 

17th. — By a letter from Philadelphia, received to-day, I am in- 
formed of the decease of our beloved friend John Allen, of Lisk- 
eard, in Cornwall, England, one of the four Friends who came to 
this country in 1845, by appointment of the Yearly Meeting in 
London, on account of the Abolition difficulties. He made his 
home at our house for a considerable time during that visit, and we 
became greatly attached to him. His decease occurred on the 15th 
of the Second-month, 1859, in the sixty-ninth year of his age. I 
deeply feel the loss of this very dear friend. We have been united 
together in a feeling of warm Christian unity and fellowship, and 
his correspondence has always been interesting and refreshing. I 
feel that a brother beloved, and a father in the church has been 
taken away. May the memory of his bright Christian example, 
and of his sound faith, and love, and good works ever live with 
me, to encourage and incite me in the Christian pilgrimage. His 
close is said to have been peaceful, and I do not doubt but he is a 
partaker of that bliss, which is in store for the righteous. 

18th and 19th.— Attended the Westfield Quarterly Meeting at 
Elk. The meeting is small, but there are a few valuable Friends 
there, and it is pleasant to be with them. Several other members 
of the committee of the Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders 
were in attendance, and our minute of appointment was read. Our 
friends John L. Eddy, of Huron county, Ohio, and Ellwood Qzbun 



1859.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 177 

and wife, of Salem. Iowa, were also in attendance; also Miriam 
Hough, of New Garden, accompanied by her husband — all under 
religious engagement. I visited our friends William and Delila 
Stubbs at their home, and they accompanied us to meeting, al- 
though his condition of health is critical. Had an agreeable home 
in West Elkton with their son-in-law, John Maddock, and Martha 
his wife. 

20th. — First-Jay. — Had a good meeting at the usual hour; then, 
at three o'clock p.m., had a Bible meeting, at which, toward the 
conclusion, an association was organized, auxiliary to the Indiana 
Bible Association of Friends, with about thirty-five members, and 
nearly thirty donors of fifty cents and under, each. Came home- 
ward next morning, in company with John Pool, Jonathan John- 
son, William and Ann Kenworthy, and Rebecca Clawson, who had 
attended the two meetings. 

26th. — We attended Milford Monthly Meeting to-day, on the 
committee of the Quarterly Meeting. Had a satisfactory meeting. 
Visited dear mother: then went to Aaron White's and staid the 
night. Beturned in the morning. 

29th. — At Cincinnati on business. 

30th. — Our daughter Hannah A. made us a very acceptable and 
agreeable visit in the early part of this month ; and now, in the 
latter part, we are cheered with a pleasant call from our dear Eli 
and Mary. 

Fourth-month 2. — The summer session of the boarding-school 
being now fairly in progress, I went this evening to commence a 
new series of lectures on business matters to the students. My 
desire and intention is to endeavor to inculcate sound principles, 
and correct, upright practices. 

4th. — Eli and Mary went home this morning. 

22d. — This evening, after reading, the reading circle was ad- 
journed over until Tenth-month next. The "readings" have been 
well attended, instructive, refreshing and satisfactory. I hope the 
evils of the tongue have been avoided. 

Weather very cool ; but hope the fruit is not destroyed. 

Our First-day school for Scriptural instruction was resumed for 
the summer session on the 10th inst., with an attendance of ninety- 
three students. On the 17th, we had one hundred and eighteen 
with favorable prospects for some good. 



178 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1859- 

Fifth-month 26. — The committee appointed by our last Quarterly 
Meeting to visit the Monthly Meetings, have now gone through 
the attendance of all of them, to a good degree of satisfaction. 

Much of my time and attention have been taken up with the 
little work of " Scripture Exercises on Luke and John in Har- 
mony,'' before noticed, and I have now nearly completed the same! 
It has cost me so much labor and care, that I must hope for some 
usefulness from it, if it can be published and obtain circulation. 

A short time past, the death of Dennison Olmstead, a professor 
in Yale College at New Haven, and an eminent literary character 
in the United States, was announced ; and now we have the an- 
nouncement of the decease of Alexander von Humboldt of Berlin, 
a man of extensive attainments, and talents of a superior order, at 
an advanced age. 

Late advices from Europe bring the tidings of the formal decla- 
ration of war between Austria and Sardinia, in which France is a 
part}'- as an ally of the latter. A conflict between these mighty 
nations must be truly awful. 

We had much wet weather in the spring, but it has been dry of 
late ; a shower yesterday refreshed vegetation. 

Flour, wheat, corn and oats are all high, and the two last scarce. 
Flour, $3.50 per hundred pounds; wheat, $1.25 per bushel; corn, 
80 cents per bushel ; oats, 55 cents per bushel ; Irish potatoes., 
$1.20 per bushel ; butter, 20 to 25 cents per pound. 

Our Bible association has been doing some good business; a short 
time past one hundred and twenty dollars was remitted to aid 
in the supply of Africa; the townships of Jackson and Boston, in 
this county, have been completely canvassed and supplied, and 
Washington and Wayne nearly so ; besides considerable work in 
other places ; all of which affords us satisfaction in the retrospect. 

We hear of the arrival at Milton of Sarah, wife of our dear 
William H. Coffin, with three children, on the 23d inst. We shall 
expect them here soon. 

Sixth-month 2. — Fifth-day morning. — Our Central Book and 
Tract Committee met this morning, and the " Scripture Exercises 
on Luke and John in Harmony" was laid before them for their 
judgment thereon, with reference to publication. Portions were 
read, and the work was considered, and much interest was mani- 
fested in the early publication thereof; and a minute was made 
recommending it for use. 



1859.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 179 

Meeting for Sufferings to-day; a comfortable good feeling pre- 
vailed. I have been engaged with a committee of that meeting 
preparing a revised statement of the meetings of Indiana Yearly 
Meeting, which was reported, adopted, and ordered to be printed. 

Sixth-day. — Ministers and Elders at eleven o'clock A. m.; a good 
meeting. African Committee at two o'clock p. m. A Bible Meet- 
ing at seven o'clock p. m. ; a very interesting meeting, at which the 
details of the canvassing of several townships were reported. 

Our dear Sarah Coffin came in this evening, the second time. 

Seventh-day. — Education Meeting at nine o'clock A. M. Quar- 
terly Meeting at eleven o'clock A. M.; a good meeting, and a large 
attendance. Asenath Clark, Ellwood Ozbun, Francis W. Thomas, 
and Sarah Ann Linton with us. 

First-day. — The weather is cold for the season, and we had a 
considerable frost last night. Some injury is done to the tender 
vegetables, and probably some to the wheat and small fruits. 

We had an interesting First-day school this morning ; about 
one hundred and twenty-five in attendance. 

A large meeting at eleven o'clock A. M. ; then at four o'clock 
P. M. Ellwood Ozbun had a meeting for the youth and others ; 
largely attended. Both good meetings. 

15th. — Fourth-day. — I set off this morning to go to the Northern 
Quarterly Meeting, to be held at Back Creek, in Grant county. 
Went by railway to Anderson ; thence by wagon north, up the 
waters of Killbuck Creek, and staid at a country tavern. Passed 
through a better country than I had looked for. 

Fifth-day. — Left early, and, passing some rough road and inferior 
land, arrived at Fairmount about ten o'clock A. M., and reached 
Monthly Meeting at Back Creek at the usual hour. The meeting 
was long and appeared to me to be large. Dined at Aaron Hill's ; 
then to Richard Gordon's. 

Sixth-day. — Left Richard Gordon's early, he kindly taking me 
in his carriage ; and crossing back over the Mississinewa, took the 
road down it on the south side, passing Mississinewa meeting-house 
and Isaac Jay's near it, to Marion. Then returning, called at Isaac 
Jay's, and went with him to Back Creek, passing through Jones 1 
boro', to the second Meeting of Ministers and Elders ; about forty 
in attendance ; a good meeting. Attended the African Committee 
in the afternoon. 



180 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN,' [1859. 

Seventh-day. — Education Meeting at half-past nine o'clock; made 
some remarks which appeared to be well received. 

Quarterly Meeting at eleven' o'clock a. m.; very large; the house 
was so full as scarcely to be comfortable. Anna Hobbs, Jeremiah 
Hadley of Whitelick, Joseph Picket of Honey Creek, and Mary 
Ann Rich of the same parts, were in attendance, with minutes. 
William Binford of Walnut Ridge was also there. The meeting 
held long, and was a good meeting. 

A Bible Meeting at five o'clock p. m. Much lively interest in 
the cause was shown, and a new auxiliary to the Indiana. Bible 
Association of Friends was organized. Returned to Aaron Hill's, 
having dined at Nathan Morris'. 

19th. — First-day. -^-Attended the Scriptural school at Back Creek, 
in the morning. The meeting at eleven o'clock was large, and an- 
other for the youth was held at four o'clock P. m. — both good meet- 
ings. Went home with Jesse Wilson, and then to Nathan Wilson's, 
both near Fairmount. 

20th. — Returned home. 

26th. — Attended a Bible Meeting at West River, in the limits 
of Springfield Monthly Meeting. 

Ann Hunt died on the morning of the 26th, and was buried in 
the afternoon of the 27th. The funeral was largely attended. 

We have recently had pleasant visits from our beloved daughters, 
Mary C. Johnson, Hannah Amelia White, and Sarah W. Coffin. 

Seventh-month 3. — First-day. — One hundred and twenty-three 
scholars in attendance at our First-day Scriptural school, this 
morning. 

10th. — First-day. — My aged cousin, Joseph Coffin, departed this 
life, at the house of William B. Hinshaw, in Economy, to-day ; 
aged a little over eighty-five. I visited him a few days past, much 
to satisfaction. To him, I believe, death was not unexpected, and I 
have no doubt of his having entered into rest. 

11th. — Attended the funeral at Fairfield; it was largely attended, 
and a solemn meeting. 

26th. — Our son William arrived from Kansas. We were rejoiced 
to greet him again at our dwelling. 

After drought of about four weeks, we have had some delightful 
refreshing rains. 

Eighth-month 15. — Death of Nathan Rambo. 



1859.1 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 181 

Our clear children. William and Sarah, and their three sons Wil- 
liam, Albert, and Robert, are agreeably with us. 

23d. — Our children, William and Sarah, and their three sons, 
left Milford for Kansas. 

I attended West Branch Quarterly Meeting n the 19th, 20th 
and 21st, which was satisfactory. A Bible Meeting was held on 
First-day morning, at nine o'clock A. M., the 21st, which was largely 
attended. 

26th. — I visited my brother and sister, Thomas and Hannah 
Symons, at Spiceland. 

The little book of Scripture Exercises on Luke and John in Har- 
mony, is received to-day. It is neatly gotten up by the publishers, 
and I must hope and desire that it may be introduced, used, and 
found useful in the good work of a Scriptural education. 

We have had refreshing rains, which have invigorated the 
crops of corn, and caused the fields to give prospect of a fair 
turn-out. 

31st. — More rain — and delightfully cool and clear since it fell. 

Ninth-month 1. — We hear, this morning, with much interest and 

feeling, of the birth of a daughter, yesterday, to our dear Hannah 

Amelia and Morris White. She was doing well when the message left. 

2d. — John Hawkins, an old friend, and an early settler in this 

neighborhood, is buried to-day. 

2d and 3d. — Our Quarterly Meeting at Milford — pretty largely 
attended, and satisfactory. 

Charles and Khoda set off on the morning of the 2d to Ohio 
Yearly Meeting, in company with several other Friends. 
13th. — They returned, having had an interesting visit. 
16th. — I left home to attend the Western Yearly Meeting. On 
arriving at Plainfield was kindly taken in by my valued friends 
Eleazar and Esther Bales, with whom I made my home. 

17th. — The Meeting of Ministers and Elders was held at eleven 
o'clock A. M., and the Meeting for Sufferings at three o'clock P. M.; 
both good meetings. 

18th. — Two large Meetings for Worship. We have in attend- 
ance, Thomas and Hannah Arnett, Daniel Williams, Thomas Fra- 
zier, Ellwood Ozbun, Jane Jones, Eliza P. Gurney, Daniel Hutchin, 
Smith G-regg, and others, from other Yearly Meetings. Phebe R. 
(xifford should also be named. 



182 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1859. 

19th. — The Yearly Meeting for Discipline was opened to-day. 
Their large house was well filled — estimated at about two thousand 



members. An interesting meeting. This is Second-da 



& — & . 



*y- 



From this until Fifth-day evening the 22d, my attention was 
occupied, with a deep feeling of interest, in attending each day a 
sitting of the Yearly Meeting, and in meeting also with the Min- 
isters and Elders, and with committees who were engaged in im- 
portant matters of general interest. Friends were remarkably kind 
in their bearing toward me, and having been so lately engaged to- 
gether in our own Yearly Meeting, in the services of the body, it- 
appeared much like being at home to be with them — the mutual 
fellowship and good will, which appeared to exist, gave me great 
pleasure. I left Plainfield and came home one day before the 
meeting closed, on account of the near approach of our own Yearly 
Meeting, and for other reasons. 

On arriving at home, I found that our daughter, Caroline E. 
Ladd, with two children, were making us a most acceptable visit. 

27 th.— Third-day. — The Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders 
met at ten o'clock. We had a large and interesting meeting. At 
three o'clock p. M. our Meeting for Sufferings convened. The busi- 
ness was proceeded with to satisfaction. 

28th. — Fourth-day. — We had a large public Meeting for Wor- 
ship to-day. Our friend Lindley M. Hoag, who is in attendance 
this year from Iowa, has been largely engaged in powerful min- 
istry. 

29th. — Fifth-day. — The Yearly Meeting was gathered at eleven 
o'clock, A. M. The number in attendance is evidently not quite so 
large as it was before the Western Yearly Meeting was set up ; but 
still the house is pretty well filled below, with many in the youth's 
"■allery — so that the meeting is still large. Business was progressed 
with in a comfortable manner: about the usual amount lor this day 
being gone through. 

Last evening, our central book and tract committee held their 
Annual Meeting, which was satisfactory. 

This evening the Education Meeting was held ; pretty largely 
attended, but not so satisfactory as it might have been, on account 
of a want of order, etc., in the reports. It was concluded to hold 
a First-day School Meeting on First-day evening. 

30th. — Sixth-day. — The state of Society, and other interest- 



1859.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 183 

ing topics had the consideration of the meeting to-day. A good 
meeting. 

"VVe have in attendance at the Yearly Meeting Eliza P. Gurney 
and her companion Hannah B. Mottj Phebe R. G-iffbrd, and her 
husband, Isaac R. Gifford. with her; Hannah Pierson, accompanied 
by her husband, Thomas Pierson, and several of our own members 
from a distance — Thomas Frazier, Ellwood Ozbun, William Pear- 
son, Jane Jones, and other from Iowa, and Sarah M. Iliatt from 
Minnesota. 

This evening the Bible Meeting was held; an interesting time. 

Tenth-month 1. — Seventh-day. — The report of the central book 
and tract committee was read this morning, and received as much 
favor, atid even more than I had expected. The meeting then 
united in granting a request for another Quarterly Meeting in Iowa, 
called South River. After this, the request for the establishment 
of a new Yearly Meeting in Iowa was considered, and a committee 
was, with entire unity, appointed to visit the Quarterly and other 
meetings in that State, in reference thereto. Several other reports 
on interesting subjects were afterward read, and disposed of. 

2d. — First-day. — Two very large meetings for public worship 
were held as usual. Then, in the evening, a meeting, on the sub- 
ject of First-day schools for Scriptural instruction. It was conclu- 
ded to recommended to the Yearly Meeting to appoint a special 
committee on that subject. 

The proposition received a favorable response, and a 
large committee was appointed to have the care of that 
interesting subject, "for the further advancement of the 
cause, and for greater efficiency of action upon it in the 
subordinate meetings." 

The event of a First-day school association becoming a part 
of the regular business of the Yearly Meeting, was regarded 
by Elijah Coffin with no ordinary emotions ; he having 
been one of the first to consult on the expediency of such a 
measure being taken. As the subject of this memoir has 
only set his seal to the deep interest which he took in the 
Sabbath school cause, from early manhood, by frequent 



184 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1859. 

references to the particular schools in which he was en- 
gaged, and has not spoken explicitly upon the subject, this 
would seem a proper place to remark upon it, or one of the 
chief portraitures of his character would be omitted. 

Prompted by a desire to aid in advancing the interests 
of true Christianity, about the year 1817 he was one of a 
few young Friends w r ho were instrumental in forming a 
Sabbath school at New Garden, North Carolina. In this 
effort they encountered much opposition from the prejudices 
even of good people ; however, it should be remembered 
that at that early date the subject was new, and many of 
the same Friends became favorable to the cause. Having 
no experience in the formation of such schools, it was con- 
ducted quite differently from those of the present day, and 
was not under a regular organization, but one who himself 
took a lively part in the establishment of the school says 
of Elijah Coffin, that he was the master spirit, and properly 
the leader and superintendent. 

On his removal to Cincinnati, Ohio, one of his first steps 
was to establish the first Friends' Frist-day school, which was 
ever put into operation in that city, in the autumn of 1833, 
and of which he was the superintendent, and only teacher 
during his residence there. The school was not divided 
into classes • the general plan of conducting it was, for all 
to read portions of Scripture, verse about, after which he 
made explanatory remarks, with the appropriate applica- 
tion for the benefit of the hearers. 

In the summer of 1835, we next find him at Richmond, 
Indiana, awake to the necessity of this important branch of 
Christian labor, by enlivening an interest in the cause. An 
effort had been made by Friends, the preceding summer, to 
establish a school ; but at the time of Elijah Coffin's re- 
moval to that place it had ceased to exist. 



1859.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 185 

He opened a school in the school-house, near Whitewater 
meeting-house ,which was at a later period taken under 
charge of a Monthly Meeting committee, and held in the 
meeting-house. In this school he performed the duties of 
superintendent for twenty-eight years, until the time of his 
death. 

It is alike impossible and unnecessary for us to follow 
him throughout his labors, both within and without, his own 
religious Society, having continued an earnest worker, and 
strenuous supporter of the cause until the close of his life, 
and left, as a testimony of his devotion, a series of Scrip- 
ture Question Books, " which shows great Biblical knowl- 
edge and research." 

He was frequent in his attendance of the Sabbath schools 
of other denominations, and on an occasion of seeing either 
older or younger gathered to gain a knowledge of the gos- 
pel truths, it was seldom that his voice was not heard ex- 
pressive of his delight, and his words of encouragement 
both to teachers and scholars drew forth the affectionate 
regard of Christians of every name. 

He was instrumental, in connection with other religious 
professors, in establishing Union Sabbath schools, in local- 
ities where there was no Sabbath school under the care of 
religious denominations, and in these labors, instances have 
occurred which have given evidence that an especial bless- 
ing rested upon the work. He was filled with an expan- 
sive Christian love, and believed in a close union of Chris- 
tian hearts, in the spread of the simple gospel truths, and, 
while he expressed an ardent love for his own church, his 
spirit seemed to rise above all sectarian feeling, into the 
purer atmosphere of love to God and to his fellow-men, 
without regard to name or condition. This is shown in 

13 



186 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1859. 

the following extract;, from the notes taken of the last ad- 
dress, he made in public : " Every real Christian should 
possess, and doubtless would feel in a greater or less de- 
gree, that love which embraces the whole human family, 
and anything like an exclusive feeling that would hinder us 
from uniting, under a genuine concern for our own preser- 
vation in the truth, in efforts with any fellow-Christian, for 
the good of others, he was fearful came from a wrong source. 
Nor is there any need, while laboring in this spirit outside 
our religious Society, of compromising our own precious, 
although peculiar religious principles. As a people we owe 
a duty and a service, not only to our own members, but to 
society at large, and it well becomes us as Christians to 
inquire whether we are coming up to our line of duty in 
this respect. He had often felt interested in the establish- 
ment of these schools (Sabbath schools), without the pale 
of our Society, and had sometimes labored herein with those 
not in profession with himself, and from his own experience 
he could testify that these efforts had not lessened his love 
or attachment for the truth as professed by Friends. In 
this Christian interest he would encourage such labors, and 
when the motive to the work springs from a love to Christ, 
he believed that a blessing would attend the service." 

In tracing Elijah Coffin's course in the Sabbath school 
enterprise, much might be revealed in relation to the marked 
features of his character, the most prominent of which were 
love to the Saviour, and a chaste attachment to His cause, 
with simple devotedness to His service-— his cheerful Chris- 
tian and his enlarged and catholic spirit, which led him to 
entertain a warm feeling of affection for other professing 
Christians, while he steadily maintained, with consistency, 
his own views and religious principles as a Friend. In al- 



1859.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 187 

lusion to this distinguishing principle of his character, a brief 
extract is taken from a letter, written after his decease, by 
his highly honored friend Benjamin Seebohm to a member 
of his family : " No narrow-minded, sectarian spirit was per- 
mitted to mar the beauty and symmetry of his character as 
a faithful Friend, and it is comforting to reflect to what a 
large extent he was made the means of blessing to the 
Christian community to which he belonged, while his sphere 
of usefulness was, by no means, confined to their limits." 
As a further evidence of the spirit in which he labored in the 
Sabbath school cause, the writer will conclude her remarks, 
by extracting from a copy of the " Memoirs of Elizabeth 
Dudley," now in her possession, a passage which exempli- 
fied the sentiments of the subject of this memoir so fully, 
that on reading them at one time he took his pencil and 
marking the margin, wrote: "Heartily approved," sign- 
ing it with his full name, in a broad hand. " It is interest- 
ing to see real heart-felt religion flourish amidst the shades 
of difference ^which outwardly distinguish professing Chris- 
tians ; and I believe more frequent intercourse among tne 
spiritually-minded of all denominations would increase our 
toleration for each other, by bringing under the influence 
of that charity which ' seeketh not her own,' but 'rejoic- 
eth in the truth wherever found.' " 
The journal continues : 

Tenth-month 3 and 4. — In these two days the business of the 
Yearly Meeting was gone through, and the meeting came to a sol- 
emn close to much satisfaction. Most of the Friends in attendance 
left very soon. Eli and Mary went home, to Cincinnati, on the 
evening of the fourth. 

6th. — Fifth-day. — William H. Ladd and Caroline left this morn- 
ing for home, intending to go by way of Cincinnati, and remain there 
a few days. 
l 12th. — We were greatly moved by hearing of the sudden and un- 



188 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1859. 

expected decease of our nephew Jesse D. Hiatt, of Kansas, which 
occurred on the evening of the fourth instant. He was a valuable 
young man, who will be much missed at the meeting and in the cir- 
cle in which he belonged. Their grief will be poignant, but the 
Supreme Ruler in his inscrutable wisdom has things as he will, and 
orders all for the best. It becomes us to accept his dispensations 
with submission and deep reverence. » 

"L Our boarding-school opens, for the winter session, with favorable 
prospects. This week about fifty-five boys and sixty-five girls are 
received. 

Tenth-month 14— Attended the committee (now Earlham College.) 

20th. — A great stir with the county fair. 

Eleventh-month 17. — When this day of the year rolls around I am 
solemnly reminded of the rapid progress of time. This adds ano- 
ther year to my age. I am now sixty-one. A year now seems 
much shorter than one did in very early life. 

On the eleventh, I went to Waynesville, to attend the Miami 
Quarterly Meeting and the Indian Committee, of which last I am now 
a member. We desire to make an effort to obtain a complete title 
to the land and premises in Kansas, where our school is kept for 
the Shawnee Indians. The Meeting of Ministers and Elders and 
that of the Indian Committee were both pleasant. 

12th. — Miami Quarterly Meeting. Exceedingly rainy. Attended 
the Education and African Committees in the morning; then the 
Quarterly Meeting at eleven. It was a good meeting. I had in- 
tended to go home this evening, but the trains do not connect. 
Staid last night with my beloved friends Thomas and Hannah Ar- 
nett. Our fellowship is renewed by our social meeting and by their 
kind hospitality. In the evening it was very inclement, but I went 
in company with our Eli and Mary C. Johnson, to Cincinnati, 
many other Friends being in company. 

13th. — First-day. — Attended Friends' First-day school, in Cin- 
* cinnati this morning — then Meeting for Worship. In the afternoon 
went with Eli Johnson to a Sabbath -school, at the Central (Pres- 
byterian) Church, where there were over two hundred children. I 
was called upon for some remarks at the close. The occasion was 
an interesting one. 

Returned home on Second-day, the fourteenth. 
{ The weather has, so far this season, since last spring, been 



I860.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 189 

remarkably agreeable and pleasant, there having been very little 
of extreme. , 

Eleventh-month 28. — I went to Cincinnati to attend the Annual 
Meeting of the Young Men's Bible Society, which was held in the 
evening. I felt much diffidence at the idea of making remarks, but 
being called out by the chairman, I addressed the congregation for 
fifteen to twenty minutes, which I have reason to believe from the 
kindness which was shown to me, was well received and satisfac- 
tory. 

Twelfth-month 2, 3 and 4. — Our Quarterly and other meetings 
were held on those days to satisfaction. The weather is beginning 
to be inclement and cold. 

5th. — My dear wife and daughter Miriam went to Cincinnati. 
My wife's object, mainly, was to consult her advising physician 
Doctor David Judkins, who has had her case under care for some 
time past. 

8th. — On yesterday morning, after an inclement windy night, with 
snow, the thermometer sunk to three degrees below zero ; much the 
coldest, so far, this winter, and although yesterday was a fine day, 
the cold did not moderate, but became more intense last night, so 
that this morning, the thermometer indicated sixteen degrees be- 
low zero. 

20th. — Rhoda M. Coffin and I visited sixty four families, in the 
first ward, in Richmond, to ascertain if there were any families in 
need as to food or clothing, and if all were supplied with the Holy 
Scriptures. We found eleven families who had not the Bihle ; sold 
six Bibles and gave away six, by which all were supplied ; sold one 
Testament and gave away two ; found but one family, who at the 
present time, needs help. 

24th. — Snow still on the ground. Thermometer four degrees be- 
low zero this morning. 

31st. — Our friend, James Johnson, is dangerously ill. The wea- 
ther is very cold : fourteen degrees below zero this morning. 

First-month 1 and 2, 1860. — The cold weather continues. Thir- 
teen degrees below zero in the morning, and for more than forty- 
eight hours the mercury did not rise above zero at mid-day. 

4th. — Fourth-day ', evening. — Our friend James Johnson expired at 
a quarter past eleven last night. He was an active and useful man — 
a friend whom I highly valued, and the loss of whom I shall much 



190 ~LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

feel. He has a large and interesting family. Our children, Eli and 
Mary, are here to see him. 

7th. — The funeral was to-day, at ten A. M., largely attended. A 
solemn meeting before interment. 

Weather moderated, with some rain. 

19th. — We hear to-day, of the decease of our dear and valued 
friend Dr. Richard H. Thomas, of Baltimore. He was indeed a bro- 
ther beloved, to whom my heart was greatly attached in the bonds 
of Christian unity and fellowship. He was one of those members 
of the church who understood the doctrines of Christianity, and who 
was a Christian from experience, knowing the realities of religion 
by its practical operation. I feel great confidence that he has enter- 
ed into rest, and that he is receiving the end of his faith, even the 
salvation of his soul. The church on earth has lost in him a val- 
uable member and his personal friends a dear and affectionate bro- 
ther. Of him, it seems to me it may be truly said, as of almost 
any other within my knowledge, "Let me die the death of the right- 
eous, and let my last end be like his." His decease took place on the 
fifteenth, and his funeral was appointed to take place on the eight- 
eenth. 

21st, 22d, 23d. — James C. Fletcher, late a missionary to Brazil, 
delivered three lectures in the evenings ; one on "Brazil and the Bra- 
zilians;" the second on "The Bible in Brazil;" and the third on 
"Sardinia and the Waldenses;" all of which were listened to by 
myself and others with much interest. I went with him to Earl- 
ham College, on the twenty-third, 'where amongst other things, he 
entertained the students, with great pleasure with some remarks, in 
a lecture of nearly an hour, on his travels in Brazil and Europe and 
other subjects. 

Second-month 3. — My wife and I went to Cincinnati and remained 
there until the sixth, in company with our children and other 
friends. 

I attended the reading circle in the evening at Harriet Steer's 
where more than twenty were present, and the exercise and inter- 
view were pleasant. 

On Seventh-day evening, the fourth, several friends were invited 
to M. M. White's, whose company we enjoyed. 
, First-day 5. — Very wet weather in the morning, so the First-day 



I860.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 191 

school was small at Friends' Meeting House. Eli Newlin and 
Andrew F. Evans were at meeting. 

I went with Eli and Mary C. Johnson to the Bethel Sabbath 
School, at two, P. M. It was a new scene to me. There were pre- 
sent, probably, between two and three hundred poor children, and 
it?seems to me that this movement for instructing these children in 
morality and religion, giving them good advice, and contributing 
to their necessities, is one of a deeply interesting character, opening 
a great field for the exercise of true Christian benevolence, mercy 
and charity. I believe that the Divine blessing may be expected to 
aid an enterprize so truly Christian in its objects. 

I omitted to record at its proper date, the adjournment on First- 
day, the twenty-ninth of the First-month, of the winter session of 
our First-day school. This session was attended in the early part 
by about sixty persons ; and in the latter part, since the weather 
became inclement, by from thirty to forty. Our Scripture exer- 
cises and communion together have been sweet and pleasant — and 
we now adjourn, with some regret, at parting. 

Second-month 13. — Our aged friend, Margaret Morris, died this 
afternoon at about four o'clock. She has been lonsr an invalid and 
Sunk at last and went off rather suddenly. There is ground to hope 
that her end is peace. 

I spent part of the day in canvassing Sevastopol, one of our sub- 
urbs, to ascertain and supply destitution of Holy Scriptures to fam- 
ilies. 

15th. — I attended the funeral of Margaret Morris, at Milford. 
We had a solemn, quiet meeting. 

Decease of Hannah Bell, at two A. M. 

21st.— Death of Sarah Hubbard, wife of Richard J. Hubbard. 

23d.— Visited Earlham College. 

24th. — Death of George Fiske, an Episcopal minister, with whom 
1 had acquaintance and some intimacy. 

25th. — I have been hearing, each evening this week, a course of 
lectures delivered by Doctor Boynton, on Geology and kindred 
subjects. The lectures have been very interesting and informing. 
This may be said without indorsing every opinion which was ad- 
vanced. The doctor has, however, evidently devoted great attention 
to the subject, and entered largely into investigations of various 
matters relating thereto. 



192 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

"" 26th. — First-day. — Attended a Scripture recitation at the College 
this morning. 

Second-month 27, 28, 29.— These three days have been chiefly 
taken up in attending the examinations at Earlham College. About 
one hundred and fifty students have attended the college in the 
session just closed, and the progress and administration have been 
as satisfactory as at any previous time. The Scripture recitations 
have, probably, been better than any before. 

Third-month 2 and 3, — Our Quarterly Meeting at Milford. A 
good meeting. Thomas Jay and his companion, Richard Gordon, 
present. 

We have been much moved on hearing of the increased indispo- 
sition of our dear Eli Johnson. Charles and Rhoda are going to 
see him. 

11th. — Our First-day school committee convened this morning to 
make arrangments for conducting the summer session. I have been 
superintendent for many years — and was again appointed to the 
service — Isaac P. Evans, assistant. 

12th. — I went to Cincinnati, our daughter Miriam with me, to 
see Eli Johnson. Found him feeble, but cheerful as could be ex- 
pected. 

13th. — I returned home, and Eli came with me and staid until 
the sixteenth. 

18th. — The physician having advised a 'trip to the south as most 
likely to benefit Eli Johnson, he and our dear Mary took passage 
on the boat "City of Madison,'' for New Orleans, expecting to pro- 
ceed thence to Cuba and elsewhere, if Providence favor it. .Our deep 
sympathies go with them. 

30th and 31st. — Having undertaken to visit the families in Sevas- 
topol, a suburb village near Richmond, to ascertain the state of sup- 
ply of Holy Scriptures among them, these two days were partly 
occupied with that service. Fifty-three families were visited, and 
three, who were not supplied, were furnished, but four destitute Ro- 
man Catholic families declined to be supplied. Tracts were distri- 
buted at most places. 

Letters received from Eli and Mary give us an agreeable account 
of their progress down ihe Ohio river. 

Fourth-month 1. — First-day. — This morning, at nine o'clock, the 
summer session of our First-day school, for Scriptural instruction, 



I860.] LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFE*. 193 

was opened. The morning was rainy, but we had an attendance of 
fifty-three students. We had a pleasant meeting of the teachers 
and some others at six P. M. ] 

Fourth-month 7. — Attended a meeting of the associated commit- 
tees on Scriptural schools, in the limits of our Quarterly Meeting, 
held at Bethel, for organizing a branch of the general committee 
on First-day schools. Ninety-five Friends were in attendance and 
the meeting was satisfactory. 

8th. — The second week of our First-day school. One hundred 
and ten present. Francis W. Thomas held an appointed meeting 
at Whitewater, at three P. M. — I was not present because a Bible 
Meeting had been appointed at Centerville, whieh I was expected 
to attend. We had a respectable and attentive congregation at the 
Bible Meeting ; and after remarks on the needs, objects and designs 
of the Bible cause, a collection was taken up and about ten dollars 
contributed to aid in the work. 

9th. — We have encouraging letters from our dear Eli and Mary, 
at New Orleans. They were to sail for Cuba, on the eighth. 

Our daughter, Hannah Amelia, is making us a visit much to our 
satisfaction. < 

19th. — A letter is received from Mary, at Havana, very interest- 
ing to us. Eli is improved : date Fourth-month 10. 

We had an attendance of one hundred and sixteen at our Scrip- 
ture school, on last First-day, the fifteenth. Enos Gr. Pray and 
some others present. In the afternoon we attended the opening of 
their summer session, at Orange, and had a satisfactory time. A 
Teachers' Meeting in the evening. 

V I am now engaged in my "Scripture Exercises" in Kings and 
Chronicles. 

Fourth-month 21. We have another satisfactory letter from our 
dear Mary, dated Havana, twelfth : doing well. 

Fine rains have fallen and the cherry, pear and apple trees are 
in full bloom. 

22d. — Fine rain. One hundred and twenty-five at Scripture 
school this morning. 

25th. — Monthly Meeting. Zeri and Miriam Hough in attendance, 
with minutes to our satisfaction. 

The meeting granted to myself and my dear wife a minute for 



194 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

our eastern journey which we are proposing, with the aid of Pro- 
vidence, to accomplish. 

We are thinking first to visit William and Caroline E. Ladd, for 
a few days, and afterward to proceed toward New York, in order to 
attend the Yearly Meeting. 

26th — Cold and severe frost. 

28th. — Still cool, with frost in the morning. 

29th. — One hundred and twenty-four at Scripture school this 
morning. Murray Shipley and Jonathan Dickinson present. In 
the afternoon I went to Sevastopol, to aid in the organization of a 
Sabbath school in that village. 

30th. — White fr5st. We had agreeable meetings of our Central 
Book and Tract Committee and the Executive Committee of the 
Indiana Bible Association of Friends, to-day. 

Fifth-month 1, 1860. — Cool. Much of the fruit is destroyed. 

My little library and study-room is about finished. 

4th. — Another letter from Mary, to twenty-sixth ultimo, at 
leaving Cuba, crossing the gulf and stopping at Key West. A 
pleasant passage. 

5th. — Warm and seasonable. 

6th.— One hundred and sixteen at Scripture school this morning. 
Attended again at Sevastopol — about fifty present. 

8th. — We had made preparation for our eastern journey, and ac- 
cordingly set off at ten A. M., by railway. At Dayton, we fell in 
with Ephraim Morgan, and he and I, being under appointment to 
give attention to procuring a complete title to the tract of land oc- 
cupied by our establishment in Kansas, for the civilization and 
improvement of the Shawnee Indians, it was deemed necessary that 
we should proceed at once to Washington City with regard thereto ; 
so, passing on together to Newark, Ohio, we parted with my wife 
at that place, who proceeded to William H. Ladd's, and we went on 
our way ; crossing the Ohio river, below Wheeling, we traveled 
through the night and reached Washington at about five P. M., on 
the ninth. 

We visited Edward Clark, attorney for the Shawnese, and Senator 
Pugh, the same evening in relation to business; and next morning 
we again visited Senator Pugh, then the Commissioner of Indian 
Affairs — Greenwood — and having found that a new treaty, or modi- 
fication of the treaty last made in 1854, will be necessary before 



I860.] LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. 195 

the end we had in view could be accomplished, we made all such 
arrangements as appeared proper in regard to having an article in- 
serted to accomplish our objects whenever a new treaty should be 
entered into. "We soon began to make preparations to return. We 
had visited the Capitol and walked through the grounds, and walked 
some through the city, and called on Representatives Kilgour and 
Case, early in the day: and now we again went to the Capitol, vis- 
ited the House of Representatives and the Senate, each for a short 
time ; then went to our hotel, took dinner, and left in the cars for 
the west, at three p. m., and after a favorable trip with a long train 
of cars, in which we passed the Alleghanies during the night, we 
arrived at the Ohio river at breakfast time in the morning of 11th. 
Ephriam proceeded on homeward, and I stopped at Wheeling to 
breakfast. After breakfast I crossed over the Ohio, took the rail- 
way to Steubenville, and went thence to William H. Ladd's. It 
was very pleasant to greet my dear wife and children again, and to 
rest with them on Seventh-day the twelfth. 

£ 13th. — First-day. — Attended First-day Scriptural school at Cross- 
creek, at half past nine o'clock A. m.j about thirty present. Then 
at Meeting for Worship. At three o'clock p. M. we visited a Bible 
class, taught by Caroline Talbert, wife of Kinsey Talbert, at their 
dwelling; an interesting class of thirty or more in attendance. 

At six o'clock p. m. we had a Bible Meeting in Richmond, 
which was respectably attended. I addressed them nearly an hour, 
and was listened to patiently. 

The next three days we passed agreeably with our children, 
and their friends. To James D. Ladd's on the 14th p. M. ; 15th 
A. M. to see Benjamin Hobson and Sarah Ann, his wife ; and 
in the p. M. to Matthew Watson's and Eliza, his wife. (She has 
been long confined by indisposition.) 16th A. M. to Abraham J. 
Hobson's and his sister [Elizabeth; and in the P. M. to William 
Henry Crew's and Deborah, his wife. 

In the afternoon of 17th we set off for Quarterly Meeting at 
Mount Pleasant, and staid that night at Joseph Jones', at Smith- 
field, on our way. We had rain before arrival. 

18th. — Sixth-day. — We went forward this morning from Smith- 
field to Mount Pleasant, and after calling at the house of our friends 
George and Sarah Jenkins, we attended the Quarterly Meeting 
of Ministers and Elders; about eight men and eisrht or nine 



'o — *- v " **-~ "*&' 



196 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

women present. We had a pleasant time together, and after meet- 
ing we returned to Greorge Jenkins' to dinner. In the afternoon, 
William H. Ladd accompanied me to the Mount Pleasant boarding- 
school, where we were respectfully received by Yeardley and Han- 
nah Ann Warner, the superintendent and matron. We were kindly 
and freely shown through the premises, and heard one or two reci- 
tations. There were sixteen girls and five boys in the school at 
this time (about sixteen or seventeen students present.) Went to 
David Updegraff's in the evening, and had an interesting visit with 
them and their mother, Ann Taylor, now in the ninty-fifth year of 
her age. 

19th. — Seventh-day. — Attended Short Creek Quarterly Meeting 
at Mount Pleasant. It was small, but a good meeting. Samuel 
Lloyd obtained the sanction of the meeting for a religious visit to 
New York, New England, Baltimore and North Carolina. 
We dined at Jonathan Binn's. 

At five o'clock p. m. a Bible Meeting was held, mainly, no 
doubt, at my suggestion. A respectable company present, and a 
good meeting. 

We made a pleasant visit to Ellwood Ratcliffe and his wife Mar- 
tha, and staid the night. 

20th. — First-day. — To Scriptural school at nine o'clock A. M.; 
school not large, but a pleasant time. To Meeting for Worship at 
eleven o'clock a. m. A good meeting. 
Dined with Gr. Gr. and Jane M. Plummer. 

Attended a First-day school meeting at three o'clock P. M., and 
had a pleasant time together. 

Returned to our friends George and Sarah Jenkins', and passed 
the evening and next morning very agreeably with them. 

21st. — After breakfast we called at Thomas Terrell's, who has 
no other family than his daughter Olive. Doctor Updegraff made 
an application of chloride of zinc to a large troublesome wart on 
my hand, with a view to its removal. At twelve o'clock Thomas 
Terrell most kindly took us into a carriage and conveyed us to 
Wheeling, at which place we left in the cars at ten minutes past 
three for Baltimore. 

22d.— After more than sixteen hours in the cars, we arrived at 
Baltimore about eight o'clock A. M., and were kindly taken in by 
Doctor James Carey Thomas and his amiable wife Mary. After 



I860.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 197 

getting some refreshment and rest, we visited our dear aged friend 
Hugh Balderston, who had been long confined by illness, and who 
had lived longer already than he had expected. He was feeble, 
but sitting up ; and we had a pleasant visit. [This dear and val- 
ued friend departed this life on the 14th of the Sixth-month fol- 
lowing.] We returned to Doctor Thomas' to dinner, and in the 
afternoon made a very pleasant visit to Deborah, the widow of the 
late Doctor Richard H. Thomas, who has a pleasant residence near 
the city, having the Doctor's children, and his sister Henrietta, and 
her own aged mother, in family. We returned with Doctor James 
and his wife, who had kindly gone with us in the evening. 

23d. — We left Baltimore for Philadelphia at forty minutes past 
eight o'clock A. M., and stopped off at Wilmington, Delaware, at 
eleven o'clock, to make a short visit to our beloved friends John 
W. Tatum and Amy his wife, and their daughter Hannah. We 
enjoyed the visit much, and had pleasant calls from our friends 
Samuel Hilles and wife, and Charles Howland and Gulielma his 
wife, who is a daughter of S. Hilles. We arrived at Philadelphia 
at ten o'clock p. M., being most kindly met and taken in by our 
friends John and Mary Whitall. 

24th. — Attended a Monthly Meeting in Arch street at ten o'clock 
A. m.; after meeting, made a call at our beloved friend Thomas 
Evans', then dined at Thomas Kimber's ; in the afternoon attended 
a meeting at Arch street meeting-house, in regard to the Oneida 
Indians; and afterward took tea at Doctor Theophilus E. Beesely's. 
25th. — Accompanied by our valued friends Isaac and Rebecca 
Collins, we were conducted through the House of Refuge, an in- 
stitution to which they devote much time and labor for the im- 
provement of the inmates. The institution appears to be in excel- 
lent order, and the opportunities afforded to the children and youth 
who are confined here, by the discipline and education which are in- 
culcated, must be of inestimable value to them. We were highly en- 
tertained, and much interested in the visit. Our friends next took 
us to the Eastern Penitentiary, at which we spent a short time see- 
ing its construction, etc. The confinement is solitary. We were 
admitted into one of the cells occupied by a female prisoner. We 
next went with Rebecca to the Howard House, a charitable institu- 
tion for destitute women, which she had been instrumental in es- 



198 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

tablishing. We found here some sixteen woman clean and comfort- 
able. To J. M. Whitall's to dinner. 

After dinner we went to Haverford College by railway, several 
Friends going with us. It was pleasant to greet again Our friends 
Timothy Nicholson, the superintendent, Elizabeth B. Hopkins, the 
matron, and Charles Atherton, who is acting as governor. The lo- 
cation and outside improvements are beautiful, and apparently 
healthy, but the buildings did not equal our expectations. We did 
not have opportunity, in the short stay we made, to hear much in the 
way of recitations, but have no doubt that the opportunities afforded 
by the institution for good education are excellent. We took sup- 
per with the officers and students now about sixty in number ; then 
at dark, after a hasty look through their fine large telescope, and 
at several other fine instruments, we returned in the cars to Phila- 
delphia. 

26th. — Made a call at William Evans',~attended to some matters 
of business, then went to dine with our friends Richard and Han- 
nah Richardson. Here we met with our friends Edith Griffith, 
Eli Haines, Joseph and Lydia Haviland, now out on religious con- 
cern. In the evening we went to Charles and Emma Yarnall's to 
tea, and met with a very pleasant company. 

27th. — First-day. — Went to meeting at Twelfth street — which 
was a good meeting. After dinner at John M. Whitall's. I went to 
Catherine Shipley's school for the instruction of neglected children ; 
then, at half past three o'clock p. m., attended the First-day Scrip- 
tural school at Twelfth street meeting-house, which interested us. 
We took tea with Townsend Sharpless and wife, and attended the 
evening Meeting for Worship at seven o'clock. 

28th. — Stephen Morris kindly went with me to Radnor to visit 
his father, our dear aged friend Israel W. Morris, which was very 
satisfactory. Returning we called at Samuel Rhoads', but he had 
gone to the city. We returned and dined at John M. Whitall's, 
and left for Burlington at two o'clock p. m., his wife Mary kindly 
going with us. Called at William J. Allinson's — at tea at Joseph 
Taylor's and his sister Hannah; called at our dear friend Susan R. 
Smith's, and went to Eliza P. Grurney's to lodge. 

29th. — We attended Burlington Quarterly Meeting at ten o'clock 
A. M. The meeting was not large, but agreeable. Samuel Allin- 
son, clerk. After meeting we went to dine with Richard Mott, jr., 



I860.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 199 

and wife, with our friend Hannah Mott, who traveled west last 
season with E. P. Ghirney. We had tea at William J. Allinson's, 
and after tea, had an interesting call on our aged friend Rebecca 
G-rellet, widow of the late Stephen Grellet, daughter of Isaac Col- 
lins. She gave me an interesting account of her labors as proof 
reader with her sister, of the proof sheets of the quarto Bible, pub- 
lished by her father — the first, or one of the very first, which was 
printed on this side the Atlantic. She is infirm, but entirely bright 
in her mind — aged about eighty-two. Afterward we made a pleas- 
ant call at our friend Rowland Jones' ;'he was in North Carolina in 
the days of our youth, in company with Abigail Barker and Mar- 
garet Allinson, whose memory is sweet to us. Returned to William 
J. Allinson's to lodge. 

30th. — We left Burlington at seven o'clock A. M. for New York, 
and arrived at Henry Dickinson's, 164 Eldrige street, in that city, 
at about twelve o'clock m. I attended the " Representative Meet- 
ing" at three o'clock P. M., and was much interested. Over thirty 
members in attendance. 

31st. — Fifth-day. — The Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders 
convened at ten o'clock A. M. About seventy men and fifty woman 
present. This was a good meeting. 

Sixth-month 1. — The Yearly Meeting of New York was opened 
to-day at ten o'clock A. M. About two hundred and fifty to two 
hundred and seventy-five members present in the men's apartment. 
Certificates of Friends from abroad, epistles, etc., proceeded with. 
The Friends from abroad with certificates, are Thomas Frazier, 
Lindley M. Hoag, from Iowa; Samuel Lloyd, from Ohio, accom- 
panied by Asa Williams; Jeremiah A. G-rinnell, accompanied by 
William E. Morris, from Indiana, and ourselves ; Edith Griffith, 
accompanied by Lydia H. Haviland and Eli Haines, from western 
Pennsylvania. [Julia Ann McCool, accompanied by her husband, 
Thomas McCool, from Iowa, and Mary Pinkham, from Ohio, came 
in before the meeting ended.] 

We dined at William and Mary S. Wood's, and attended the af- 
ternoon sitting at three o'clock. The minutes of the Representa- 
tive Meeting were read. 

We had an interesting Bible Meeting at eight o'clock p. m. at 
the meeting-house, well attended — held pretty much, I believe, at 
my suggestion. It gave me pleasure to witness^so much interest, i 



200 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

2d. — The Yearly Meeting convened at ten o'clock A. m. The 
minutes of last year were read, and then an interesting report was 
read of the " Murray Fund, " and the distribution of books by the 
trustees. A report of the Tract Association, although an independ- 
ent association, was introduced and read, and was responded to by 
many appropriate remarks. 

We dined at Robert Lindley and Ruth Murray's, 320 East Thir- 
tieth street, in company with our friends Thomas Frazier, Rudolph 
Yorke, and several other Friends. Then to meeting again at four 
P. M., when an interesting report, in regard to education and schools, 
was read. 

Another Bible Meeting was held at eight o'clock p. M., at which 
a constitution was adopted, and an association regularly organized. 
More than one hundred dollars was subscribed. 

3d. — First-day. — Large Meetings for "Worship were held in both 
rooms of the fine appropriate meeting-house on Twentieth street, 
where the Yearly Meeting is held, at half past ten o'clock a. M. 
The meetings in the main room, and that in the basement were 
esteemed very favored meetings. Then again at three o'clock p. 
51. two other like meetings were held ; good meetings also. 

This meeting-house is the best, everything considered, in my 
opinion, belonging to Friends, on this continent. 

We had tea at William Cromwell's. 

A Youth's Meeting was appointed by Lindley M. Hoag and 
others, and held at eight o'clock p. M., which we did not attend — 
rest appearing to us indispensable — but it was reported to be very 
large, attended with edifying interest. 

4th. — We had a heart-comforting Meeting of Ministers and El- 
ders at eight o'clock A. M. — a time of real fellowship. 

Two sittings of the Yearly Meeting were held to-day (at ten 
and four o'clock), in which the consideration of the state of Soci- 
ety occupied the time. 

We dined to-day at William Underbill's, son of our friend Phebe 
G. Underhill. 

5th. — The Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders convened at 
eight o'clock A. M., and held a pleasant closing session. The 
Yearly Meeting met at eleven A. St., and again at four o'clock p. 
m. The reports of the boarding-schools at Union Springs and 
Nine Partners were read to-day, and were interesting. 



I860.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 201 

We dined with William F. Mott, jr., and had tea at Doctor Tho- 
mas Cock's. 

6th. — We took breakfast this morning with our beloved friend 
Paulina Sands, widow of the late David Sands, a very dear friend 
to whom we were heartily attached. 

We were made glad by the arrival in this city of our dear child- 
ren Eli and Mary C. Johnson, from the South. Eli looks thin, but 
is somewhat improved. 

A large and good Meeting for Worship was held at half past ten 
o'clock A. M. 

After meeting, we dined at William R. Thurston's, 129 East 
Fifteenth street. 

The Yearly Meeting convened at four o'clock p. M., and held its 
closing session. Friends parted in a united and thankful manner, 
after seven o'clock p. M. 

We went to Edward Marshall's to tea. 

7th. — In company with Henry Dickinson, I called at the office 
of the American Bible Union, at 350 Broom street, and had a short 
but interesting- conversation with one of the secretaries and Doctor 
Conant, who were very kind and respectful; then went to the book- 
store of S. S. and William Wood; from this to the Custom-house 
(after a call on Marshall, Dickinson & Co.), and a little through that 
part of the city; then I returned to Henry Dickinson's. 

The decease of our beloved friend John Meader, at Providence 
R. I., at one o'clock this morning, was announced to-day. This an- 
nouncement, although not surprising, as his health had, for some 
time, been so low that death was looked for, yet it brought home to 
the minds of his friends a solemn feeling of sorrow for their great 
loss on the removal of this dear brother. He has been long an 
able and gifted laborer in the church, and was, as we confidently 
believe, a man of sound Christian faith and integrity, and we un- 
derstand came to his end in full resignation and peace. 

He preserves in his autobiography the succeeding obitu- 
ary notice of his honored friend, taken from a daily paper : 

" Death of John Meader. — The death of this venerable and highly 
esteemed Minister of the Society of Friends-— for some time expected — 
14 



202 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860 

occurred thi3 morning at one o'clock, at his "residence in North Court 
street, in the sixty-fourth year of his age. The tidings will carry sor- 
row into a large circle of denominational and personal friends, and will 
cast a shade of solemnity upon the approaching gathering of his life- 
long associates in the New England Yearly Meeting. Friend Meader, 
was, we believe, a native of Sandwich, New Hampshire, where he spent 
the early portion of his life. He afterward resided for a season in 
Maine, and for the last quarter of a century has been one of our most 
honored and respected citizens. His death removes another of the up- 
right Quakers of the olden time, whose firm devotion to the principles 
of George Fox, affords landmarks to determine the position the Society 
once occupied, in contrast with the conforming tendency so prevalent at 
the present day." 

We proceed with the narrative under the same date. 

In the afternoon, at four o'clock p. m., I attended a Monthly 
Meeting of the Managers of the American Bible Society at the 
Bible-house, Astor Place, and was interested in their proceedings. 
I had a few days before, in company with Eli Jones, visited the estab- 
lishment, and been kindly shown through the various offices. The 
officers are aware that I favor their cause, and treat me with a 
marked respect. I regretted not meeting the venerable Doctor 
Cock here, as I had expected, he being an old member, and a vete- 
ran in the cause. 

Our children Eli and Mary C. Johnson came to Henry Dickin- 
son's to tea, where we had an interesting company of young people, 
and passed a very pleasant evening with them. 

Mary Pinkham from Ohio, and Julia Ann McCool from Iowa, 
accompanied by her husband Thomas McCool, having arrived in 
the city about the close of the Yearly Meeting, are on their way to 
New England on a religious visit. 

8th. — Sixth-day. — Charles and^ Rhoda arrived in this city, and 
arrangements were made for going forward to Newport this evening. 
Accordingly, a considerable number of us went to the boat, to start 
at five o'clock p. m. Our dear friends Eli and Sybil Jones, and 
their daughter Sybil Narcissa, had made their home with us at 
Henry Dickinson's during the Yearly Meeting. We had an agree- 
able passage across the sound, and arrived at Newport about three 
o'clock a. M. of the 9th ; and my wife and I, and Thomas Frazier, 



I860.] LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. 203 

Samuel Lloyd and Asa Williams went, by previous engagement, to 
Stephen Chase's, on Spring street, where we made our home during 
the Yearly Meeting. 

Attended the Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders at nine 
o'clock A. m. ; sixty-eight men and sixty-two women present. The 
funeral of our dear friend John Header being appointed at twelve 
o'clock M,, at Providence, the Providence Friends remained to 
attend it, and then came on to the afternoon sitting, which was 
held at four o'clock. 

A session of the Meeting for Sufferings was held at six o'clock 

P. M. 

10th. — First-day. — The wind blew strong, and the day was really 
cool. The Yearly Meeting for Worship was held at ten o'clock 
A. M., and was a large and interesting meeting. We went to David 
Buffum's to dinner ; and Thomas Buffum kindly went with me to 
Portsmouth, to the afternoon Yearly Meeting at that place, at four 
o'clock. The house was well filled, and we had a good meeting ; 
then returned to David Buffum's to tea ; then to Newport. 

11th. — Second-day. — The Yearly Meeting was opened at nine 
o'clock A. M.; about two hundred and seventy-five men present. 
Adjourned soon after twelve o'clock, and met again at four o'clock 
P. M. After meeting I went to the Redwood Library, which is a 
very interesting establishment ; then, in the evening, attended the 
Alumni Association, at half-past seven o'clock, at the Aquidnuck 
Hall. The room was well filled, and an oration and a poem were 
delivered. 

12th. — A session of the Yearly Meeting was held at ten o'clock 
A. m. ; after which we dined at George Bowen's ; then attended a 
meeting of the education committee at half-past two o'clock ; then 
another session of the Yearly Meeting ; and finally, at half-past 
seven o'clock p. m., a Bible Meeting was held, mainly, I believe, at 
my suggestion. About three hundred Friends, male and female, 
were in attendance, and we had an interesting and satisfactory 
meeting ; but not having time to organize into an association, it 
was agreed to meet again for that object the next evening. 

13th. — Fourth-day. — The Yearly Meeting of Ministers and 
Elders convened at eight o'clock A. M., and held a solemn meeting. 
A communication from our late dear friend John Header was read 



204 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

and approved ; and his virtues and value as a Christian minister 
were dwelt upon at considerable length. 

Two sessions of the Yearly Meeting were held to-day, at ten 
and at four o'clock. We dined at Mary Williams'. 

The education committee met at half-past seven o'clock p. m. ; 
and after dwelling for an hour or more on the subject of First-day 
schools for Scriptural instruction, during which many remarks 
were made, the committee closed, and the meeting was merged into 
a Bible Meeting, the main object being to accomplish an organiza- 
tion. A constitution which had been prepared was read and 
adopted ; then subscriptions of membership were received ; and 
then officers were appointed. Much lively feeling was manifested 
on this occasion ; over one hundred Friends gave in their names as 
members. 

14th. — A closing session of the Yearly Meeting of Ministers 
and Elders was held at eight o'clock p. M. The Yearly Meeting 
met at half-past ten, and again at four o'clock, and held until about 
seven ; then came to a conclusion. 

It was generally esteemed to have been a pleasant favored meet- 
ing, I believe. Our friends, Thomas Frazier, Lindley M. Hoag, 
Samuel Lloyd, Jeremiah A. Grinnell, Joseph Haviland, Edith 
Griffith, Huldah Atwater, Mary Pinkham, Hannah S. Fry, and 
Julia Ann McCool, ministers from other parts, were in attendance, 
with certificates or minutes. 

15th. — We left Newport at half-past five o'clock for New Bed- 
ford, calling on the way at our friend Ellis Gifford's, at Fall River, 
for breakfast. We came to New Bedford at half-past one o'clock 
p. M., and found a cordial reception at our beloved friend Susan 
Howland's. Charles Howland, and Gulielma his wife, of Wil- 
mington, were also there. We drank tea at Edward and Gulielma 
Howland's ; our children, Charles, Rhoda, Eli and Mary, were also 
present. Had much interesting conversation with Edward and 
Gulielma, in regard to a journey to Egypt and Palestine, which 
they had lately performed. 

16th. — We had an interesting ride around "The Point'' with 
Charles and Rachel Howland, and through part of New Bedford. 
The weather is delightful. We went to Matthew and Rachel How- 
land's to tea — Lindley M. Hoag also there — and passed a pleasant 
evening. 



I860.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 205 

17th. — First-day. — To meeting at New Bedford at half-past ten 
o'clock A. m. After dinner, at two o'clock, we attended the First- 
day school ; Henry T. Wood, superintendent. Then attended the 
afternoon meeting at four o'clock. After tea, we went, Susan and 
Kaehel Howland with us, to a Mission Sabbath School Meeting, 
intended for sailors, for the poor, and such as seldom go to any 
meeting. There were about one hundred and fifty present — a re- 
markable mixture of colors, nations, children, and mature people. 
They behaved orderly B and attentively, while we read Scripture and 
addressed them. The title of the association is " The Ladies 7 City 
Tract and Missionary Society." The conductor of the meeting is 
T. R. Dennison, assisted by his amiable daughter. We feel much 
sympathy with them, and believe there is ground of hope for much 
good through their labors. 

Lindley M. Hoag had an appointed meeting at Friends' meeting 
house, for the youth, at the same hour, which we understood was a 
good meeting. 

18th. — We left New Bedford for Nantucket, and passing Sand- 
wich and other towns, we embarked by steamboat at Hyannis, and 
came to the island at half-past one o'clock, and were kindly taken 
in by our friends Thomas and Christina Macy. Our friends, Samuel 
Lloyd, Asa Hunt, Hannah S. Fry, Lindley M. Ferris, and Mary 
his wife, were in company. Mary Pinkham had gone before us to 
the island. 

19th. — This forenoon we had a pleasant and interesting ride with 
our friends Lindley and Mary Ferris to Seasconset, a fishing village, 
on the east end of the island, eight miles from the city. After a 
short stay here, we returned by the new lighthouse at Sesachachy, 
which we ascended, and had the examination of the splendid lantern 
and its machinery. 

I visited one of the public schools in the afternoon, of about 
one hundred and seventy students, which appeared to be well 
conducted. 

Samuel Lloyd and Hannah S. Fry had an appointed meeting, at 
Friends' meeting-house, at half-past six o'clock p.m.; thirty men 
and forty women attended. The small number was cause of dis- 
couragement ; but the meeting was a pleasant one. 

20th. — I passed much of the forenoon with Eliza Barney, afford- 
ing her some assistance in compiling a genealogical catalogue of 



206 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

the early white settlers on Nantucket,"and their descendents. Then 
we visited the Coffin School, a well-regulated institution, of about 
sixty students ; then returned to Nathaniel and Eliza Barney's to 
dinner. After dinner, we made calls at some shops ; obtained a 
few shells ; called at our friend George Easton's ; and then went to 
tea with our friend William Mitchell and family, where we had a 
further acquaintance with his daughter Maria, the astronomer. 

Samuel Lloyd and Hannah S. Fry had an appointed meeting, at 
the Baptist meeting-house, at half-past seven o'clock p. m. ; about 
seventy-five to eighty present ; a good meeting. 

21st. — Fifth-day. — Our friends went to the boat and left the 
island this morning. We attended the regular meeting of Friends 
at ten o'clock, being also Preparative Meeting ; ten men and nine 
women present. We could but feel the great falling off in the 
number of our Society in Nantucket. In the afternoon we visited 
several aged friends : Rachel Swain, aged eighty-seven ; Eunice 
Fitch, eighty-five ; Cromwell Barnard, ninety-one ; and Peter 
Paddack, eighty-five; also Matthew Barney, and Sally his wife. 

22d. — We left Nantucket at forty-five minutes past six o'clock, 
for Hyannis, where we were joined on the cars by several friends. 
We passed Boston at thirty minutes past twelve o'clock, and arrived 
at Lynn at thirty minutes past three o'clock P. M., and made our 
home with our esteemed young friends Charles F. Cofiin and Maria 
his wife. Toward evening we had a delightful ride with them to 
Marblehead, etc., and in the evening received calls from several dear 
friends, Samuel Boyce, Micajah Pratt, and others. 

23d. — I went to Cambridge, via Boston, on a visit to my young 
friend Joseph Moore, and to see the place, the Harvard University 
buildings, etc. He is now a student, and gave me a cordial recep- 
tion ; then showed me around, much to my entertainment. I re- 
turned in the afternoon, and after making a call on our aged friend 
Avis Keene, we went to Micajah Pratt's to tea, where we passed an 
agreeable evening with many friends. 

24th.— First- day .—To meeting at ten o'clock A. M. After meet- 
ing to Samuel Boyce's to dinner. Then Charles F. Cofl&n kindly 
took me to Salem, to the afternoon meeting. We returned to 
Nathan Breed's to tea, and had a large company of forty friends^ 
whom I addressed on the supply and circulation of the Holy Scrip- 



1860. ] LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. 207 

tures. My remarks appeared to be well received, and were very 
kindly responded to by several. 

In the morning of the 25th, we left Lynn at eight o'clock A. M., 
for Vassalborough, Maine, and passing Salem, Portsmouth, Portland, 
Augusta, and many other towns, we arrived at Vassalborough at 
five o'clock p. m., and were kindly received by our friends John D. 
and Almira Lang. In the evening I made a short visit to Oakgrove 
School, which is superintended by our friend James Van Blarcom, 
and taught by Albert K. Smiley. 

Next day, the 26th, being Monthly Meeting at China Neck, John 
D. Lang and Almira his wife, kindly took us in their carriage, and 
we went together to the meeting. Here we met with our friends 
James Jones, Eli Jones, and others, and were much interested in 
attending the meeting. Keturning in the evening, we visited the 
students and officers of the Oakgrove School. There are about 
thirty-five boarders, and twenty-five day scholars from the neigh- 
borhood. I have no doubt of the valuable influence of the insti- 
tution. :: 

27th. — "We left Vassalborough this morning, intending to return 
home pretty directly, making calls on the way aj; Union Springs, 
New York and Cincinnati. Proceeded by railway to Boston, on the 
same road on which we came out. Next day, the 28th, we went to 
Albany, and on the 29th, from Albany to Union Springs. "We were 
welcomed to a pleasant home by our friends Bobert B. and Susanna 
Howland. On the 30th, we rested, and I visited the village, How- 
land's flouring and gypsum mills, and his gypsum quarry, which 
interested me. There is a fine and beautiful country here about 
this pretty Cayuga Lake. 

Seventh-month 1, 1860. — First-day. — To meeting at eleven o'clock. 
The meeting is small, but was to-day a pleasant time. We dined 
with our friend Wm. Henry Chase, and Elizabeth, his wife, and 
their interesting family. At three o'clock p. m., we attended the 
Scriptural school at the Seminary which was interesting and satis? 
factory. Then at four o'clock P. m., went with our friend Susanna 
Howland, to hear her infant class at the meeting-house. We went 
to tea to our friend John J. Thomas', and Mary, his wife, and after- 
ward to the evening reading at the Seminary, and then to R. B, 
Howland's to lodge. 

2d. — We returned to the Union Springs Seminary at eight o'clock 



208 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

A. m., and heard several recitations. Then back to R. B. H's, to 
dinner ; and after dinner, we set off with him to the Cayuga Bridge, 
at which place we took the cars. Passed Geneva, Skenectady, 
Batavia and Rochester, to Buffalo, and thence by night train on the 
Lake Shore, to Cleveland. We breakfasted at Cleveland, on the 
3d, and proceeding, dined at Columbus, at twelve o'clock, and ar- 
rived at Cincinnati at about five o'clock p. m., where we had again 
the pleasure of meeting with our dear children. 

Resting at Cincinnati on the 4th, we went homeward next morn- 
ing, and arrived, heartily grateful for the many favors which we 
had enjoyed, at our own sweet home on Fifth-day, the 5th, at nine 
o'clock A. M. 

The next two days I was doing some correspondence, attending 
to business of the Bible Association, and endeavoring to get some 
rest. 

9th. — First-day. — To Scripture school at nine o'clock; eighty- 
seven present. Then after meeting, to the school at Sevastopol. 

During the next week, I was about home attending to various 
concerns ; mainly at work on the " Scripture Exercises," on Kings, 
Chronicles, and the Prophets. Visited the Earlham College. 

16th. — Studiously engaged at the " Exercises." 

17th. — Jeremiah A. Grinnell and Wm. E. Morris came in, on their 
return from their eastern journey. 

18th. — Eclipse of the sun at thirty minutes past seven o'clock A. 
m. ; visible ; the sun half covered. 

From this time until the 29th, I was much engaged on the " Ex- 
ercises." 

20th. — A great meteor passed over Canada and the United States 
from W. N. W. to E. S. E. 

30th. — To the Central Book and Tract Committee, at eleven 
o'clock A. m., and the Executive Committee of the Bible Associa- 
tion in the afternoon. 

Ei.glitli-month 4. — The second meeting of the Whitewater branch 
of the general committee on schools for Scriptural instruction, was 
held at Bethel to-day, at ten o'clock A. m. ; about sixty present, and 
an interesting meeting. 

The examination at Earlham College, took place on the 6th and 
7th, and the closing exercises on the 8th. 

I left home on the morning of the 8th, on a journey to Iowa, 



I860.] LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. 209 

with a committee appointed by our Yearly Meeting, on the request 
of the Friends of that State, for the establishment of a new Yearly 
Meeting. Proceeded by Indianapolis, Lafayette, and Michigan 
City, to Chicago. Next day, the 9th, to Davenport. On the 10th, 
to West Liberty, in the morning ; and thence to Red Cedar, with 
our friend Greenberry P. Wood, who came to the station for us. 

We attended the Quarterly Meeting of Ministers and Elders, at 
two o'clock P. m. ; twelve men and sixteen women present. A 
pleasant meeting. At seven o'clock P. m., the branch committee on 
First-day schools met. 

11th. — Seventh-day. — Red Cedar Quarterly Meeting convened at 
eleven o'clock a. m. Twelve of the Yearly Meeting's committee 
were in attendance, viz.: Joseph Cox, Daniel Williams, Elijah 
Coffin, George Evans, Isaac Jay, Micajah C. Binford, John Hadley, 
jr., Thomas Bond, Jane Johnson, Abigail Morris, Elizabeth Cox, 
and Lydia B. Macy. About two hundred men, and two hundred 
women present. The meeting sat long, and it was a good time. 
The members appeared to be entirely united in the desire for the 
establishment of a Yearly Meeting in Iowa. Meeting rose about 
five o'clock. 

A Bible Meeting was held at seven o'clock p. m.; about two hun- 
dred present, and a lively time. The subject of Scripture distribu- 
tion and Scripture reading was pretty thoroughly stirred up, and 
much good feeling for the work was manifested. 

12th. — I attended the First-day school at Red Cedar, at nine 
o'clock A. m. Laura Tatum, superintendent ; sixty-three students 
present. A good school. 

Meeting for Worship at eleven o'clock A. m., largely attended. 

Our friend Amelia Darlington is quite ill at Greenberry Wood's. 
She was not able to attend meeting either yesterday or to-day. 

I went to Thomas and Arabella Winn's to dinner. 

Jeremiah A. Grinnell, who was formerly a member of this meet- 
ing, was in attendance at the Quarterly Meeting ; and held an ap- 
pointed meeting for the youth, at three o'clock p. m. to-day. I did 
not attend, as I was feeble. 

Our friend Joel Bean laid before the Quarterly Meeting yester- 
day, a prospect of a religious visit to the Sandwich Islands. It 
was a weighty subject, and received a sympathetic response in its 
favor from the meeting. 



210 LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

We called a few minutes at Westbranch, at Joel Bean's, to see 
Joel and his wife, an amiable couple, on our way to Phinehas 
Cowgill's, where we staid. 

13th. — When I left home on the 8th, the weather was extremely 
hot, but a change commenced on the evening of the 9th, and this 
morning we have a little frost. The crops of wheat and oats have 
been harvested, and mostly stored away, and are considered un- 
usually good. The fields of corn on the wayside, from home to 
Chicago, and from Chicago to Rock Island are exceeding rich and 
beautiful, with very little exception, and will yield largely no doubt. 

The same may be said of the fields in Iowa, so far. The grass 
lands also produced good crops of hay. For two years before this, 
there has been great failure of crops in Iowa, so much so, that 
scarcity existed in some places, and the people were a good deal 
discouraged. But now the prospect is so cheering that a spirit of 
hopefulness and encouragement prevails. May the good Giver be 
remembered for honor in the time of prosperity ! Further to the 
south, drought is reported to prevail to a distressing extent. We 
hear this from southern Kentucky, Tennessee, Texas and Kansas ; 
and there is no doubt that the south pretty generally feel it more or 
less. In all the north the crops are generally good. 

We went west nine miles to Iowa City — and after a short call 
here proceeded, still westward, up the Iowa River. The railway 
from Iowa City toward Des Moines is about finished a few miles 
westward from Iowa City, and they are progressing with the work. 
The country upon our route does not appear to me to be equal to 
Cedar county, yet there is much good land. 

We traveled in the day about 45 miles, and staid at a village 
called Acosta. 

14th. — We were off early, and had rain about the time of start- 
ing and during most of the forenoon, and it was also quite cool and 
chilly. I looked upon the country along our route, still less de- 
sirable than that we passed through yesterday, but as we ap- 
proached La Grand, in Marshall county, there was a decided im- 
provement — about this place, the country is beautiful. We staid at 
Marshalltown, the county seat, at the house of William Batten, 
who is judge of the court, who with Elizabeth his wife, took us in 
and treated us with much kindness. 

15th. — We left Marshalltown early, and proceeded by way of 



I860.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 211 

Marietta, through a fine country to Bangor, to the Meeting for 
Worship at 11 o'clock A. ME. We called for a few minutes at David 
S. Macy's, before meeting. Friends have a new unfinished frame 

meeting house, , and there was an attendance to-day of about 

five hundred persons, male and female. We had a good meeting, 
and afterward dined at James Owen's — then returned to the Quar- 
terly Meeting of Ministers and Elders at four o clock P. M. This 
was attended by nineteen men and twelve women, beside our com- 
mittee, and was an agreeable meeting. 

A seven o'clock a. m. a Bible Meeting was held, which was nu- 
merously attended — the work received a lively impulse, and much 
good spirit prevailed. Steps were taken here, as at Red Cedar, to 
do some work in the way of canvassing for the supply of the des- 
titute. 

We staid at James Owen's. 

16th. — Fifth-day. — The First-day School Committee convened 
at half past eight o'clock A. iff.; the Education Committee at nine 
o'clock; and the Book and Tract Committee at half past nine A. M. 
These committees were all interesting. At eleven o'clock A. M., 
Bangor Quarterly Meeting convened — four hundred and fifty to 
five hundred in attendance. There was much business and the 
meeting held long. Our friends David Hunt, James Owen and 
Eli Jessup were liberated by certificates for religious service 
abroad. The Yearly Meeting's committee had a pleasant interview, 
and the meeting closed solemnly and in much good feeling. After 
dining at James Owen's, we went near night to Ann Haley's and 
staid. 

17th. — We left early for South River Quarterly Meeting, pursu- 
ing a course a little to the west of south. We were soon in a 
prairie of about thirteen miles across, and after this came to a 
village called Iowa Center where we dined, and then proceeded on 
our way, and came to Skunk River in about twelve miles more ; 
then down that river to Ishmael Lee's, where we staid. We were 
very tired, having traveled over forty miles, and the county^through 
which we passed was not so interesting as some other parts we had 
seen. 

Eighth-month 18. — We were on the road early, and after traveling 
through a settled country (crossing the Des Moines river, at Adelphi) 
we stopped at Charles Hinshaw's to dinner. Then proceeded to 



212 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

South River to the Quarterly Meeting of Ministers and Elders, at 
four P. m. This was attended by nine men and seven women, beside 
the committee, twenty-eight in all. After meeting we went to 
Jesse Blair's and staid. 

19th. — First-day. — The First-day school committee convened at 
nine A. m. ; then at eleven o'clock the public Meeting for Worship 
convened; about five hundred persons in attendance. Daniel Wil- 
liams and Isaac Jay spoke at some length, and acceptably, I be- 
lieve. At four p. m. a Bible Meeting was held, about three hun- 
dred being present. Remarks were made on the design and object 
of Bible Associations, and in the state of the supply of the Holy 
Scriptures in this and other countries, and other branches of the 
subject at some length, after which an organization was formed aux- 
iliary to the Indiana Association. I went to John Tomlinson's and 
staid. 

20th.— The Education Committee convened at nine A. ml, ; then 
at eleven o'clock, South River Quarterly Meeting met, about five 
hundred being in attendance ; part of the number outside the house, 
as the house could not hold that number, being 48 by 36. The at- 
tention of the meeting was called to our concern, and a general 
expression of unity with the request followed. Our friend Rho- 
dema Newlin, obtained the approbation of the meeting for religious 
service abroad. After meeting, which closed satisfactorily, we dined 
at Jesse Blair's, then left at six o'clock, on our way to Pleasant 
Plain Quarterly, and proceeded nine miles and staid. Our course 
was nearly east. 

We proceeded eastward, in the direction of Oscaloosa, early, 
twelve miles, and crossed the Des Moines river at a ford. It is a 
beautiful stream here as it was at Adelphi. Thence nine miles to 
Pella, a town settled in an excellent region of country, chiefly by 
emigrants from Holland. It is a well looking and improving town, 
of about two thousand five hundred inhabitants. We dined at a 
tavern in town, at noon ; and after an hour's rest, proceeded toward 
Oscaloosa, and -staid in the neighborhood of Spring Creek, at 
William Fry's. Here we became acquainted with Benjamin Fry, 
William's father, an aged minister, who is now too feeble with age 
and infirmity to attend meetings. He appeared lively and good 
spirited, and delighted to discourse on religious subjects. 

Eighth-month 22.— We went to JSpring Creek meeting house 



I860.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 213 

early, in order to attend a Bible Meeting, at nine o'clock. It was 
adjourned, after doing some business, until half past six, P. M. At 
eleven the Meeting for Worship convened; about four hundred 
present. 

Our friend, Amelia Darlington, -whom we left sick at Red Cedar, 
died to-day, — the news of her decease came to us at Salem. 

At four P. M. the Quarterly Meeting of Ministers and Elders 
met at this place. Eleven men and eleven women and the commit- 
tee present. 

The Bible Meeting was held in the evening, and was pretty well 
attended, and a satisfactory meeting. We staid at Benjamin Hol- 
lingsworth's. 

23d. — Fifth-day. — Pleasant Plain Quarterly Meeting was held 
at Spring Creek to-day, — about four hundred and twenty present. 
The meeting was satisfactory. They appeared to be well united in 
their request for a Yearly Meeting. 

A new and good looking building, 38 by 52 feet, has just been 
erected at Spring Creek, for the purpose of a boarding-school. 
The house is nearly ready for the reception of officers and stu- 
dents ; and the Quarterly Meeting, in whose care it is to be oon- 
ducted, adopted regulations, and appointed a committee for the 
management of the school. 

We dined at Benjamin Hollingsworth's, and afterward, George 
Evans and I went to Daniel Presnall's and staid. 

24th. — We parted last evening with our young friend, Dillworth 
Schooley, who had kindly brought us thus far from Bed Cedar, and 
now Daniel Presnali takes us in his carriage to Ottumwa. We set 
off early from his house and went to Oscaloosa to meet with the 
rest of our company, then proceeded forward to Ottumwa, about 
twenty-five miles. We called here for dinner, and I went for a few 
minutes, to see our young friends Benjamin Ladd and wife. We 
took the cars and went forward by railway to Mount Pleasant, forty 
five miles, first parting with our friends who brought us from the 
neighborhood of Oscaloosa. We took tea with Francis White and 
wife, and then went on with our friend Willet Dorland to his house 
in Salem, where we staid. 

Eighth-month 25.— Seventh-day. — I was not well last night, and 
kept pretty quiet this forenoon, and wrote one or two letters. Salem 



214 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

Quarterly Meeting of Ministers and Elders was held at four p. m. — 
attended by eleven men and ten women and the committee. 
p 27th. — First-day. — I attended the First day-school at nine A. m., 
which was satisfactory. Then the Meeting for Worship at eleven, 
four hundred and fifty to five hundred present. After meeting, we 
dined at Joel Hiatt's, then attended a Bible Meeting at half-past 
three P. u., about one hundred present. An association, auxiliary 
to the Indiana Bible Association was organized. Took tea at Allen 
Hiatt's. 

27th. — Attended the First-day School Committee, at nine A. m.; 
then, at eleven o'clock, Salem Quarterly Meeting convened : about 
four hundred present. The request for a Yearly Meeting was con- 
sidered at the proposal of our committee, and united with, generally, 
without dissent. There was much business, but it was nearly gone 
through at three p. m., and as I wished to arrive at home next day, 
I left at that hour, Isaac Jay with me, and we were kindly taken by 
Willet Dorland to Mount Pleasant, where we entered the cars going 
east. We crossed the Mississippi at Burlington about dark, and at 
eight p. M. proceeded eastward through Illinois, passing G-alesburgh 
and Peoria, and continuing through the night, we came to Logans- 
port, about nine A. M., on the twenty-eighth, and I was enabled to 
reach home at about three p. m. and embrace my dear wife and family, 
truly glad and thankful for the protecting care and kindness of the 
high and Holy One, from whom everything good comes, during this 
long and interesting journey. 

It has been cheerful to observe in this long journey, first from 
home to Chicago, then from thence across the State of Illinois to 
Rock Island, and upon the whole route through Iowa, and then 
upon the route homeward, through Illinois on another line, that the 
crops have been everywhere good. The settlers feel, of course, 
encouragement, and many of them do, no doubt, feel grateful ; for 
in Iowa, especially, for two years before this, there was a pretty 
general failure of crops ; and this year, further to the south, the 
crops are cut short by drought. It is God who causes the sun to 
shine and the rain to descend, and it appears wholly appropriate 
to bear reverently in remembrance that it is to Him we owe every 
thing which sustains our life, contributes to our comfort or rational 
joy, and promotes our real happiness. 

Eighth-month 29. — Fourth-day. — The marriage of Sarah Sylvania 



I860.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 215 

Rambo with Benjamin F. Maxwell took place to-day, and was ac- 
complished in an exemplary and satisfactory manner. We may 
hope that a blessing is in store for these young people, who are just 
setting out to themselves on the great journey of life. 

Our friend, Eli Jessup, of Iowa, now in these parts on a religious 
visit, attended the meeting to-day and had some acceptable service 
near the close. 

31st. — We went to our Quarterly Meeting of Ministers and Eld- 
ers as usual, and had satisfactory meetings to-day, and one, also, 
on Seventh-day, Ninth-month 1, at the Quarterly Meeting. Our 
friends Eli Jessup, Nereus Mendenhall and Charles Starbuck, of 
North Carolina, being present. 

Ninth-month 2. — First-day. — One hundred and four students at 
First-day Scriptural school this morning. An interesting meeting in 
the evening of the Association of Teachers and others engaged in 
the school. 

7-9th. — We attended Spiceland Quarterly Meeting — a pleasant 
meeting. About six hundred friends present on Seventh-day. Eli 
Jessup and Francis W. Thomas in attendance. We had a pleasant 
visit with our relatives. Funeral of Mary B. Griffin, daughter of 
Joseph Griffin, on First-day afternoon. 

Ninth-month 11. — Death of Jemima Burson, at nine A. m. 

Phebe Ann Sands and companions came in the evening, on their 
way to Western Yearly Meeting. 

12th. — Death of Micajah Morgan. Phebe Ann Sands attended 
our meeting. 

13th. — John J. Thomas of Union Springs, New York, called. 

Lindley M. Hoag and Sybil Jones called. 

Death of John Maxwell, at eight P. m. 

16th. — Western Yearly Meeting is held to-day. 

18th. — Visited Gulielma Henly — she is so much paralyzed as to 
be unable to converse. 

22nd. — We hear a very good account of the Western Yearly 
Meeting. John J. Thomas and Mary his wife, came in and staid 
over the First-day with us — pleasantly. 

26 th. — Our son, William H. Coffin, arrived from Kansas this 
morning. We were extremely glad to see him. 

Monthly Meeting to-day. _ 



216 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

29th. — Our daughter, Caroline E. Ladd, arrived. It was joyful 
to meet her. 

30th. — First-day. — Joseph Brown, of Canada, was at meeting. 

Tenth-month 1. — Our children Eli, Mary and Hannah Amelia, 
oame to-day. We are made very happy by their coming. 

2d.— Third-clay. — The Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders 
was held at ten A. m., and the Meeting for Sufferings at three P. m. ; 
both good meetings.. 

3d. — Fourth-day. — Yearly Meeting for Worship, at eleven a. m.; 
house nearly filled, say about one thousand eight hundred present. 
A very good meeting, being largely blessed with the visitation of 
the Holy Spirit. Lively ministry by Rebecca Updegraff and Da- 
vid H. Bennett. 

The Indian Committee at three p. m. The concern does not ap- 
pear to have all that prosperity and success which could be desired. 

The Central Book and Tract Committee at six p. m. — an inter- 
esting meeting; some eight or nine hundred present. 

Tenth-month 4. — Fifth-day. — Indiana Yearly Meeting convened 
to-day, at eleven A. M. In the morning at half past eight o'clock, 
a committee convened, who had been appointed by our last Yearly 
Meeting to prepare a document on the First-day of the week. The 
preparation of this document had cost much thought and labor du- 
ring the year, and an essay being now produced and read, was 
adopted and carried forward, and on being read afterward in the 
Yearly Meeting, it received the approbation and unity of the meet- 
ing and was directed to be published. 

The meeting to-day was large, probably two thousand Friends in 
attendance, and the business was transacted, and put in course for 
transaction, in a satisfactory manner. The African Committee met 
at four o'clock, and the Education Committee at six, the latter, in 
particular, turned out to be a good time. 

5th. — The Yearly Meeting, to-day, was engaged in considering 
the state of Society, and after that, other interesting business — a 
favored and satisfactory sitting. The Indiana Bible Association of 
Friends held its Annual Meeting, at six p. m. More than one thou- 
sandpersons, probably, were there, and the occasion was one of gen- 
eral interest. 

6th. — Another session of the Meeting of Ministers and Elders 
was held, at eight A. M., then the Yearly Meeting, at ten o'clock 



I860.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 217 

Another satisfactory day. The General Committee on First-day 
Scriptural Schools was held at four p. m., and was a time of interest. 
Then followed, at six o'clock, a meeting of the Young People's Lite- 
rary Association, formed, mainly, by the students and others con- 
nected with Earlham College. 

7th. — First-day. — The day was rainy and unfavorable, so that the 
attendance was not so multitudinous as at some previous times. 
Two large solemn meetings were held, one at ten A. m., and the 
other at three p. m., as usual. Then at seven p. m., a Meeting for 
"Worship was held by and for the youth, at their proposal, with the 
approbation of the Yearly Meeting. The lower floor of the large 
meeting-house was closely filled, and some went into the gallery 
besides ; the number was, probably, not less than two thousand. 
It was a remarkable time of prayer ; prayer aad other devotional 
exercises continued, with very little intermission, untiltwelve o'clock, 
or five hours. The meeting was very solemn; a large number of- 
fered prayer who had not before done so in a public manner, and 
a confident hope is entertained that many were stirred up to a more 
earnest consideration of the things appertaining to everlasting life. 
" Bless the Lord, my soul ! and all that is within me, bless his 
holy Name ! " was the overflowing exercise of many hearts. The 
Lord was pleased in his goodness to be there, and this memorable 
time can not be soon forgotten. 

Tenth-month 9, 10. — Two more interesting days of business closed 
the proceedings of the Yearly Meeting, and friends parted in much 
love and thankfulness. Joseph Brown, of Canada, David H. Ben- 
nett, of New York, Sybil Jones, of Maine, Rebecca Updegraff, of 
Ohio, Phebe Ann Sands and Beersheba Herendeen, of the State of 
New York, and Hannah Tatum, of Indianapolis, were in attendance 
with certificates. 

Our very dear children all left, during the week, for their respec- 
tive homes. We had a solemn family meeting together in our par- 
lor, on the evening of the ninth — a time of much prayer. 

The granting of the request of our friends in Iowa, for the setting 
up of a new Yearly Meeting at, or near, Oscaloosa, in that State, 
was perhaps one of the most important matters, if not entirely the 
most so, of any other which was united with and settled by our 
Yearly Meeting this year, so far as the judgment of that meeting 

15 



218 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

could settle it. It is to be opened in 1864, if other Yearly Meetings 
concur. 

The adoption, with apparent unity, of the document on the Obser- 
vance of the First-day of the week, was also a proceeding of import- 
ance, as it was the expression of the Society on a subject which has 
received much thought and exercise of mind, in various parts, for 
a considerable time, and because the issue of this document may be 
looked upon as settling the question on that subject: and it is hoped 
it may have a salutary influence over the morals and practice of 
many. 

Tenth-month 12. — White frost this morning, the first of much 
effect. William H. Ladd, left us for Cincinnati. Caroline goes to- 
morrow. 

14th. — First-day. — Sybil Jones at meeting. Then at four p. m. 
she had an appointed youth's meeting. 

The First-day Scriptural school was -resumed this morning. 

In the evening many young persons convened at Charles F. Cof- 
fin's. Sybil Jones present, and a solemn time of worship and 
prayer was had. 

The meeting mentioned in the above extract from the 
journal, was continued to be held at the house of his son 
as a weekly evening meeting, to which frequent allusion is 
made by E. C. in subsequent parts of his diary as "the fam- 
ily meeting at C. F. C's." Many friends, and more especi- 
ally those in the younger walks of life, regularly attended 
them. 

Tenth-month 17. — The winter session of Earlham College was 
opened. 

Igth. — James Owen was here. Had a satisfactory appointed 
meeting for the youth at ten o'clock. 

19th. — To Earlham College, a visit to the students. 

21st. — To Scriptural school this morning; sixty present. 

24th. — Monthly Meeting. A minute was granted my wife, to at- 
tend the Yearly Meeting in North Carolina, and visit a few meetings 
and some families in its limits ; also one to me as her companion. 
Our daughter Miriam, also, goes with us. I also go as a deputation 
from our Yearly Meeting to theirs, to examine more fully into the 
embarrassing debt of their boarding-school. 



1860.1 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 219 



We left home on the twenty-fifth, and proceeded by the way of 
Dayton, Columbus, Wheeling, and on the Baltimore and Ohio Rail- 
way to the Relay House, and thence via Washington, Fredericks- 
burgh, Richmond, Petersburgh, Weldon, and Raleigh to Greens- 
borough, where we arrived on Seventh-day evening, the twenty- 
seventh. 

28th. — First-day. — We went to New Garden, to meeting, this 
morning : twenty-one males, thirteen females present. 

After meeting, to the boarding-school to dinner ; then, in the even- 
ing, to my brother Elisha Coffin's. 

29th. — We visited the house and farm where we 1 first settled after 
marriage, in 1820. The place has been much neglected, and now 
appears in a very unimproved condition. We called at our cousin 
Samuel D. Coffin's, while the sale of his personal property was in 
progress. Very rainy. 

30th. — Visited the place formerly occupied by our father, Ben- 
ajah Hiatt. Then to David Mace's, and had a religious interview 
with his family, he being quite ill. Then to Sarah Hoskin's, where 
we dined. Then returned to the main road and went nearly to the 
ancient, but now deserted village of Martinsville, crossing over the 
ground of the battle of Guilford, which occurred in 1781. Called 
at Ellis Hoskin's on our return to my brother's. 

81st. — Fourth-day. — Attended New Garden Monthly Meeting, 
after first visiting Phebe Cook and her family, who reside at the 
place formerly occupied by my father, and where I was brought 
up after the age of thirteen to twenty-one. It was interesting to us 
to see the old places, and recall the scenes of our youth once more. 

Neither time nor circumstances had ever dissolved the 
attachments that E. C. had for the place of his birth ; 
with mingled sensations of pleasure and sadness, he once 
more visited, in company with his wife^ and daughter, 
M. A. R., the scenes of his youthful days. It was an event 
of solemn and melancholy interest to them. Nearly forty 
years had elapsed since they left that country, and they 
had returned but once during that time. At the time of 
their removal, the Quarterly Meeting was large and many 
valuable ministers belonged to it — now it was very small 



220 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

and the few who were left were discouraged, and many of 
them were anxious to leave. The homes of their nativity — 
the scenes of their childhood were again visited, but how 
changed ! The soil had become impoverished, and the 
country, generally, from being pleasant and desirable, had 
become desolate and lonely. 

The tender emotions of the heart of Elijah Coffin were 
easily vibrated, as he recalled the scenes through which he 
had passed during his earlier years and which now so sadly 
bore the marks of time. In allusion to this visit a friend 
writes : 

" We had some interesting walks, too, around the meeting-house 
groued where his youth was spent and his first labors in the Church 
were entered upon ; on one of these occasions, I remarked, that he 
seemed to be sent back at an eventful day to resume his position, as 
though the link had never been broken ; he pressed my hand with 
his usual affection, while tears fell silently from him. n 

His narrative continues : 

The Monthly Meeting was small, only twenty males and thirteen 
females, young and old, present; very few of whom were active 
members. In the afternoon, we visited our aged friend Sarah Stan- 
ley; Betsie Porter and Millie Wedows being, also, present. Then 
went to Stephen Macy's and staid. 

Eleventh-month 1. — From Stephen Macy's we drove up to Hope- 
well ; passed the meeting-house, which has been sold to the Method- 
ists ' T called at Albert and Betsie Bayl's. It now began to rain, 
rapidly : after a short stay, went to Aletha Kennedy's-, a widow ; 
then to Charles Kellum's and his two daughters ; then to Jesse 
Trueblood's and his wife Cyrene; then to see Joseph Thornburg 
and family, Stephen kindly accompanying us : then back to the 
school. 

2d. — Sixth-day. — We went to Beep Biver to-day, John Bussell 
kindly taking us. Still raining. I attended a Meeting for Suffer- 
ings. The meeting was satisfactory and interesting. I presented 
the minute of my appointment by our Meeting for Sufferings, in re~ 



I860.] LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. 221 

gard to the debt of their boarding-school, which was read and the 
subject was sent forward for the attention of the Yearly Meeting. 
After meeting, we went to William and Penelope Gardner's, where 
we had a pleasant and comfortable time, with many other friends. 

3d. — In the morning I walked with Miriam to Deep River meet- 
ing-house, to see it and the graveyard, and their school-house. Then 
at eleven A. m. attended the North Carolina Yearly Meeting of Min- 
isters and Elders, at Deep River, about forty-three men and twenty- 
'five women being present; a good meeting. We dined at W. and 
P. Gardner's, at Florence, and then returned to the boarding-school 
at New Garden in the evening. 

4th. — First-day. — We had a Scripture reading at nine o'clock A. 
m. at the school by such Friends as chose to come in. 

At eleven o'clock a. m. the Yearly Meeting for Worship of North 
Carolina convened, having about six to seven hundred persons in at- 
tendance. Eli Newlin, Asenath Clark and David Hunt were en- 
gaged in the testimony ; and Eli N., David Hunt and Naomi Coffin 
in prayer. A Meeting for the Youth, and others, was appointed 
at half past three o'clock by Sybil Jones and Samuel Lloyd. Both 
meetings to-day may be considered satisfactory meetings. 

5th. — The Yearly Meeting for Discipline convened at eleven 
o'clock, and business was opened. The following Friends from 
■abroad were in attendance: David Hunt, Eli Newlin, Samuel Lloyd, 
William G. Johnson, Asenath Clark, Sybil Jones, Eliza P. Gurney, 
Eliza Barclay, from England, and Naomi Coffin. The usual pre- 
limary business was attended to to-day, and a committee was ap- 
pointed to unite with and aid the deputation in their investigations 
about the debt of the boarding school. A session of the Meeting 
for Sufferings was held in the evening. 

6th. — This is the day of the Presidential election. When the 
Yearly Meeting convened, it was unitedly agreed that in considera- 
tion of the great blessings of enlightened civilization and good 
government, under which it has been our happy privilege to live, 
the obligations of gratitude which we owe to the great Ruler of 
Nations on that account, and the great struggle now in progress in 
our beloved country, we should unite in solemn worship and prayer 
to the Almighty that he might continue his blessings and overrule, 
according to his will, all affairs for the good and happiness of the 
(nation. The men and women Friends accordingly spent about an 



222 [life OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [I860* 

hour and a half together in solemn worship and prayer. It was 
indeed a very solemn time. Then proceeded with business as usual. 
The state of Society was taken up and considered at some length ; 
the proposition for a new Yearly Meeting in Iowa was considered, 
and united with; and other business transacted. A time of favor ? 
and a good meeting. 

By the reports, on spiritous liquors, which were read to-day, it 
appeared that there were one thousand three hundred and sixty- 
one members, over eighteen years of age, who are clear of the use 
of intoxicating liquors as a drink; eighty-one who use it; and 
seventy-one not inquired of, making, in all one thousand five hun- 
dred and thirteen members over eighteen years of age. If we add 
to this five hundred and twenty-four children under eighteen, re- 
ported by the Education Committee, we have the number of two 
thousand and thirty-seven as the total number of members of North 
Carolina Yearly Meeting. But several of the Quarterlies were de- 
ficient in reporting the number of children ; we must, therefore, 
add probably from two hundred to five hundred to make up this 
deficiency, so that the real total is probably between two thousand 
three hundred and two thousand four huudred. 

7th. — Fourth-day. — To Meeting of Ministers and Elders at nine 
o'clock A. m. Forty men and twenty women present. 

Yearly Meeting for Worship at eleven o'clock A. m. About five 
hundred present. Then Meeting for Sufferings at three o'clock P. 
m. At six o'clock P. m. we had an interesting Bible Meeting at the 
school, at the close of which an association was organized. 

8th. — We had an interview with the trustees of the broading- 
school at eight o'clock A. m. Then to the Yearly Meeting at 
eleven o'clock A. m. The clerk read an appropriate minute on the 
state of Society, which he had prepared, and then various other 
matters of business were transacted, among which was the receiv- 
ing of a report from the boarding-school trustees, giving a state- 
ment of the past year, and a statement of the agent for settling the 
large debt, showing its present condition and amount. 

Francis T. King and I were engaged about compiling a report 
to be made to our own meetings at home. 

In the evening we had a meeting at the school on the subject of 
First-day schools and Scriptural instruction. 

9th. — We met the trustees again this morning, and read to them 



I860.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 223 

an essay of our report, so that it might receive corrections or emen- 
dations if necessary. At eleven o'clock A. m. the Yearly Meeting 
again convened, and at a suitable time our report was read therein. 
A minute was made authorizing the trustees to sell out the property 
and close up the concern as soon as they prudently could. A com- 
mittee was also appointed at this session to consider the subject of 
a change of place for holding the Yearly Meeting, and report next 
year. At half past three o'clock P. m. the Yearly Meeting came to 
a solemn conclusion, and many Friends parted and went homeward. 
The Yearly Meeting had evidently been a favored time, in which 
the hearts of Friends had been largely visited with our Heavenly 
Father's love, and were tendered and contrited together therein. 
After the close of the meeting, we took leave of many, and went 
back to the school in the midst of a pouring rain. Many Friends 
also returned to the school, and were leaving in the evening, and 
night and next morning. 

10th. — Seventh-day. — We resumed visiting families at New Gar- 
den again. Stephen Macy went with us to see our cousin Achsah 
Hubbard; then to Zephaniah Spruell's, his wife being John Rus- 
sell's sister ; then John Russell went with us afterward to Gravenor 
Stanley's, George Swain's, Paul Swain's and Thomas Edwards' ; 
then to John Russell's — where we staid. 

11th. — We called this morning to see Yancey and Caroline Ed- 
wards, not long since married; then to our cousin Nathan Coffin's ; 
then to Swain's, whose wife Penlah is a member of our Soci- 
ety; then called to see Almeda Harvey, a widow with four children, 
living in the brick school-house at the meeting-house, where I 
taught school for a time in my early life ; then to meeting at New 
Garden. Eliza P. Gurney, Eliza Barclay, John M. Whitall, Dr. 
Theophilus E. Beesley and Hannah Beesley having remained at 
Greensboro' since the close of the Yearly Meeting, attended at New 
Garden to-day. 

After meeting we took leave of our aforenamed friends, who 
were expecting to proceed homeward on to-morrow morning, and 
went to Timothy Russell's to dinner, where we had a sweet and 
refreshing time of spiritual communion together, Alfred Edwards' 
and his wife having also come in. Then returned to our brother 
Elisha Coffin's, and staid. 

12th. — In the morning we called on John Ballinger and family, 



224 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

and then went to the school, and prepared to leave for Dover, and so 
on, westward. The winter session of the school was to open to- 
day; ten boys and twelve girls were already come in. About nine 
o'clock A. m. we took leave, in care of Jonathan Ballinger who went 
with us to Reuben Starbuck's at Dover. Proceeded by the way of 
Friendship to Isaac Stanley's, where we dined, and had a satisfac- 
tory religious interview with the family. We then visited Achsah 
Pegg, a widow, formerly Stanley, with whom we were acquainted 
in early life. Then we went forward to Reuben and Rachel Star- 
buck's — where we were kindly taken in, and Jonathan Ballinger 
returned home. 

13th. — We were kindly accompanied and assisted by our friend 
Reuben Starbuck in visiting several families. Went first to see 
three elderly women Friends, Sarah Jessup, Celia Perkins and Ra- 
chel Buckingham, who live together, sisters ; then to Richard Stan- 
ley's, whose wife was confined with illness; then to Lydia Stanley's, 
his widow mother and her daughter Rhoda ; then to Charles Pigion's ; 
and then to a Meeting for Worship at Dover, appointed by William 
G. Johnson and Samuel Lloyd, who were pretty extensively en- 
gaged in testimony; the meeting was not large, probably one hun- 
dred present. After meeting we went to George Bowman's, where 
we dined; then to Clarkson Starbuck's; and then back to Reuben 
Starbuck's, and staid. His son Lewis Starbuck came in to pass 
the evening with us. 

14th. — Believing it proper to endeavor to reach the Lost Creek 
Quarterly Meeting, to be held at Newhope on the 17th, we left 
Reuben Starbuck's early, in his company for Salem, making a call 
in the settlement of Muddy Creek, as formerly called, to see a widow 
Fisher and two daughters, we passed Kernersville and Waughtown, 
and arrived at Salem at half past eleven o'clock, and stopped at a 
tavern. 

After dinner I called on the Moravian minister,' Holland, who 
received me politely, and entered into pleasant conversation, in which 
he told me he had been some six years a missionary to Jamaica. 
Our friend Reuben Starbuck called and bade us farewell, and re- 
turned home. His kindness and love toward us have indeed been 
great. I was introduced by our friend Holland to Schwinitz, the 
superintendent of the female academy, who kindly and politely 
conducted us through the large institution. Afterward Holland 



I860.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 225 

walked with us to the cemetry, which I had considered in past 
years to be a model burying-place, and we found it yet in good or- 
der, but its neatness not quite equal, from what it seems to be from 
recollection, to what it was forty years ago. 

Salem, and the villages near, were settled originally, I believe, 
by Moravian German emigrants, who purchased one hundred thou- 
sand acres of land in that locality for their settlement. Since my 
recollection the German language was employed in the public wor- 
ship, and mostly by the citizens in their intercourse with each other. 
Noiu the place appears to be Americanized; we hear very little 
German in the ordinary conversation, and the worship is conducted 
in English. 

A new village is laid off adjoining Salem, called "Winston, for a 
county seat, and the court-house of Forsyth county is located 
therein. Miriam and I walked out as far as this village. 
T Salem, we are told, contains about one thousand three hundred 
inhabitants ; it is yet a pretty place, although not so neat as form- 
erly, and the view from the roof of the academy is uneven but 
beautiful. 

Miriam went with me to a Bible lecture, delivered by the minis- 
ter in their meeting-house at seven o'clock P. m., which we found 
interesting. 

15th. — We left Salem for Wytheville at forty-five minutes past 
six o'clock in the stage coach. Passed Old Town in five miles ; 
and Bethany in nine ; formerly German villages. Then onward 
crossing branches of the Muddy Creek, the Tom's Creek, Ararat, 
and other branches of the Yadkin, we passed near the remarkable 
knob called the Pilot Mountain, with its huge rock, said to be three 
hundred feet high, on top, and constituting, certainly, one of the 
most interesting geological curiosities of the country. Making no 
stop, except for refreshment, we came to Mount Airy, forty-three 
miles, awhile after dark. 

Next morning, the 16th, we left Mount Airy at half past three 
o'clock A. m., and had a dark ride several miles before day-light. 

It was ten miles to the Blue Ridge, at the Fancy Gap, where 
we were to ascend the mountain, and before we commenced the as- 
cent, the sun rose beautifully. The road is graded, and the ascent 
was very gradual for five miles. The mountain scenery was, in- 
deed, very interesting. We were in the valley of a beautiful moun- 



226 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

tain stream, which poured over its many falls, and we passed a mill 
on it at some distance before reaching the highest elevation, then 
followed the stream up to its source, which appeared to be at the 
summit. Here we came to a tavern, and stopped for breakfast. 
Then proceeded, and in a very short distance, perhaps less than a 
mile, came to a spring, from which the water flowed the other way, 
going to the New River instead of the Yadkin — to the Gulf of 
Mexico, instead of the Atlantic — and so on to Hillsville, county 
seat of Carrol county, Virginia, for we had crossed the line between 
North Carolina and Virginia soon after leaving Mount Airy. Hills- 
ville is nine miles from our breakfast place on the summit — and 
here we had a change of horses. Then went forward some thirteen 
miles to New River, descending the mountains in our course, and 
crossing the river at the ferry, proceeded onward fifteen miles fur- 
ther to Wytheville, where we arrived about eight o'clock P. M., 
very tired, having traveled fifty-two miles to-day over the moun- 
tains. 

We took supper and rested until eleven o'clock p. m., and then 
prepared to go into the cars by railway, which came awhile after 
midnight, and we proceeded by Abington and Bristol to Fullen's 
Station in Greene county, Tennessee, where we left the cars soon 
after daylight on the 17th: and after obtaining some refreshments, 
we went forward to the Quarterly Meeting of Ministers and Elders 
at Newhope. The meeting was very small, there being only five 
men and one woman present; our friend Eli Newlin being also in 
attendance. 

The Lost Creek Quarterly Meeting convened at eleven o'clock A. 
M., having about thirty-five of each sex, old and young, in attend- 
ance. We had a good meeting, and then business was transacted 
pleasantly. They are occupying a new meeting house, fifty by 
twenty, which cost about $800, and was built out of the proceeds 
of an estate left by Isaac Hammer, deceased, a German by descent, 
and an approved Minister among Friends, who resided in these 
parts. We went to Daniel Reals', and staid. He and his wife Ann 
have a large and interesting family, part of whom are married and 
settled. 



I860.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 227 



CHAPTER X. 

Visit to North Carolina, Continued. — Mammoth Cave. — Secession of South 
Carolina. — Capture op Fort Sumpter. — Visit to Kansas. — Shawnee Mis- 
sion. — Close op Journal. — Memoranda. — Visit to the Sea Shore. — Declin- 
ing Health. — Indiana Yearly Meeting. — Scripture School Conference at 
Cincinnati. — Conclusion. 

Eleventh-month. — To-day I am sixty-two years old. God! give 
me a heart more truly after thee ; increase my faith and trust ; take not 
thy Holy Spirit from me ; pardon all my sins for Jesus' sake ; pour out 
thy Spirit upon my soul plentifully, according to thy will, to pro- 
mote holiness, and for my sanctification; fit me more and more for 
heaven, and the blessed realities of thy people in glory; and when 
it shall be thy will that I shall depart, grant me admittance, in thy 
kindness and mercy, into thy kingdom above. Much more would 
I say, but thou knowest what I have need of, and what I desire, 
before I ask thee : bless thy people and thy church everywhere. 
Amen. 

It is easier to write a prayer here, than it was to deliver one vo- 
cally in the evening, in a solemn sitting in the family, when I felt 
much as if I ought to. but had not sufficient faith and assurance, 
and yet did not feel well satisfied afterward with having omitted the 
eifort. I felt a fear that leanness of soul might follow as a just 
consequence, and that the spirit of prayer might be taken from me, 
on such occasions in future. I must rely on the kindness and 
mercy of God to overlook this omission, if it truly was one, in his 
sight; and implore that the fear of man may be more and more 
taken from me, and a clear assurance of duty given to me. 

18th. — First-day. — I walked with John Hackney to Jacob Beals' 
— elderly Friends. Jacob is Daniel's father. Then we went to 
meeting at eleven o'clock A. M. — about three hundred persons pre- 
sent. Eli Newlin was engaged in testimony, and the meeting was 
in good degree satisfactory. 



228 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

After a recess we held a Bible Meeting to consider the supply 
and distribution of the Holy Scriptures, and Scriptural instruction. 
About two hundred remained to attend, and the occasion appeared 
to be one of interest. After making some remarks on the above sub- 
jects, I was requested to state my method, as superintendent, for con- 
ducting a First-day Scriptural school, which I did, to apparent 
satisfaction. We went to Joseph Beals' and staid, and in the eve- 
ning had a favored religious interview with this large family. 

19th. — Visited Abner Beals and family ; then John Beals and 
family ; both of which are large and interesting families ; then to 
Newhope Monthly Meeting at eleven o'clock A. M. — thirty-onu 
men and boys, and about as many females present. 

After meeting we went to Dr. William Ellis' to dinner, and had 
a religious sitting with him and his family, and some others who 
were there. There is a remarkably fine large spring here, which 
issues among rocks equally remarkable. These rocks are of a fine 
quality of blue unstratified limestone, great quantities of which, 
with variations of color and fineness, appear plentiful in this coun- 
try. Then visited Abner Ellis and family, another brother being 
also present. We found these last two to be interesting families 
also, and our sympathies were much drawn out toward them. 
Hence we went to Hannah Marshall's, a widow, and her daughter ; 
near to whom resides Eli her son, and his wife, and their family. 
Here we had a sympathetic interview, and staid. Daniel Beals 
and wife staying; with us. Daniel Beals and Eli most kindly took 
us to Fullen's station next morning, the 20th, before daylight; and 
about seven o'clock a. m. the train of cars passed, in which we 
went on our way to New Market, in Jefferson county. Passing 
Greenville, we came to New Market at fifteen minutes past ten ; 
and being kindly met by Branson Mills we went with him, passing 
Lost Creek meeting house, to William H. Morgan's, where we met 
with a cordial welcome. 

After dinner we visited Nathan Mills' family, Branson's father 
— he taking us to visit Isaac Jones' — a recommended Minister, 
his wife and her aged father, and an adopted daughter. Then re- 
turned to William H. Morgan's, and staid. We had a good time to- 
gether in the evening in a family sitting, some others being present. 

21st. — Fourth-day, — To Branson Mills'; called to see Rachel 
Wooton ; then to meeting at Lost Creek, at eleven o'clock A. m. — 



I860.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 229 

about one hundred present — their Preparative Meeting, which was 
held afterward, thirty in attendance altogether. The house is old 
in appearance, being two buildings twenty-five feet square, of pine 
logs, joined into one. Here we visited the grave of a young man 
from our state, who came out to this country on account of his 
health and died here, Arthur Butler by name. 

By the records at Newhope it appears that that Monthly Meet- 
ing was set up and opened Second-month 28, 1795, being set off 
from Westfield Monthly Meeting, and established by New Garden 
Quarterly, to which they all then belonged. Lost Creek Prepara- 
tive Meeting was set up Tenth-month 1795. Newbury Monthly 
Meeting was established, Sixth-month 1808. Lost Creek Quar- 
ierly Meeting had been established before this, probably in 1803. 
In the afternoon we visited John Haworth and family; then 
David Haworth and his family ; and returned to William H. 
Morgan's. 

22d. — We visited William Pierce's family, near Lost Creek meet- 
ing house ; then were taken to the depot at New Market ; where 
we took the railroad, first to Knoxville, twenty-five miles ; then to 
Concord, fifteen m'les, where we were kindly met by several Friends 
from Friendsville. David Jones took us from thence to Friends- 
ville to the house of our friend James C. Allen, where we staid. 
Ephraim Lee and David Morgan called to see us in the evening. 

23d. — Sixth-day. — Rain having come on it was very wet, muddy 
and uncomfortable weather. We visited David Jones and family, 
with whom his aged mother resides, who is very infirm ; also, 
David Morgan and family who are preparing to remove to Iowa. 
Then went to Newbury meeting at Friendsville, which had been ap- 
pointed at the desire of our friend Eli Newlin and ourselves jointly, 
we having been engaged in labor conjointly, and much to our sat- 
isfaction ever since our arrival in Tennessee. About one hundred 
and twenty attended the meeting to-day, notwithstanding the in- 
clemency of the weather. We visited the grave of our departed 
friend William Forster, who was buried here seven years ago ; 
then called for a short time to see John Hackney and family, after 
which we returned to James C. Allen's, the weather being too un- 
comfortable to proceed. 

We parted this evening with our friend Eli Newlin, whose com- 
pany had been very agreeable and encouraging to us, his prospect 



230 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

being to return eastward toward North Carolina, and ours, to pro- 
ceed westward, as directly home as we could. 

24th. — The night was very windy and cold, but we were up, and 
on our way back to Concord by daylight, through the aid of our 
kind friend John Hackney, whose son went with us. We had a 
cold ride eight miles to the ferry over the Holston, and boisterous 
crossing ; then calling at the house on the hill to warm, the place 
where the sickness and decease of our friend William Forster oc- 
curred, we afterward went forward to the railway station, and part- 
ing with our friends who had aided us, we were off soon after twelve 
o'clock, noon, toward Chattanooga. We came to Chattanooga about 
dark, and proceeded pretty soon in the cars for Nashville. We had 
a cold uncomfortable ride through the night, and did not arrive in 
Nashville until ten and a half o'clock A. M., having breakfasted at 
Murfreesboro' as we passed. 

25th. — After our arrival we rested at Nashville the remainder of 
the day. In the afternoon Miriam and I walked a little through 
the city. We went to the bridge over the Cumberland, and passed 
the court house, State house, and tomb of President Polk. Nash- 
ville appears to be a fine city, in a beautiful country. 

26th. — We left Nashville at fifteen minutes past two o'clock A. M., 
and proceeded . by railway by the way of Bowlinggreen and other 
places to Cave City, in the direction to Louisville. Here the train 
stopped for breakfast, and we took a stage coach nine miles to the 
Mammoth Cave. We were supplied with a guide at the hotel near 
the cave, and set off as soon as we could to the entrance. The day 
was exceedingly rainy. We descended a ravine for a quarter of a 
mile or so (the country around being hilly, almost mountainous), and 
came to the opening at what would appear several hundred feet below 
the common level. Our guide told us the cave was sixty feet wide and 
forty feet high on an average, for] four miles from the entrance. We 
went forward first to the "Rotunda " or "Vestibule," passing the 
saltpeter vats. Then still in the main cave to " the Cliffs of Ken- 
tucky;" then " the Church ;" the second vats ; and to the " Gothic 
G-alleries." We then left the main cave and took a branch cave to 
" the Gothic Avenue;" " Post Oak Pillar;" the first "stalactites ;" 
"the Register Room;" "Gothic Chapel," and then to the main 
cave again. Next we went to the " Standing Rock ;" " the Giant's 
Coffin ;" and " the Ant Eater." Then took a side cave to " the 



I860.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 231 

Deserted Chamber;" "Wooden Bowl;" "Sleeps of Time;" 
"Richardson's Spring; "Arched Way;" "Side-Saddle Pit;" 
"Minerva's Dome;" "Bottomless Pit;" "Winding Labyrinth;" 
"Goren's Dome ;" then to the main cave, and to the "Acute Angle 
Cottages ;" and to the "Star Chamber." This is about a mile and a 
half from the entrance. We then went a few hundred yards farther 
inward ; then returned and went out. My wife penetrated about 
half a mile from the entrance, and then returned, not being able to 
walk further. Miriam and I walked in the whole, as the guide said, 
about six miles. The inside of the cave is generally dry, and the 
air is pleasant and bracing, having a temperature, steadily, at all 
seasons, of fifty-nine degrees. It is perfectly dark, and profoundly 
still. The inside of the cave is almost uniformly of a dirty gray 
limestone, and so dry that there are few stalactites or stalagmites, 
except toward the far part, some seven miles inward, which we did 
not see. The manufacture of saltpeter was carried on in 1812, 
forty-eight years ago, and yet the wooden pipes for conveying the 
water into the cave from the mouth are part or all still lying there, 
and appear as if they might still be much longer before they will 
decay away. The guide thought we were about two hundred and 
fifty to three hundred feet below the common level of the surface 
of the earth above. We were inside the cave some three to four 
hours, and came out feeling compensated and satisfied with having 
made this short exploration of this, certainly, one of the greatest 
natural geological curiosities in the world. The rocks inside give 
evidence in places of much wear from the action of water. It 
would seem probable that at some age, much water may have 
flowed freely through it. 

When we came out it was still raining profusely ; we had our 
dinner at the hotel ; then, after some rest, returned in the hack to 
Cave City, took the next train of cars for Louisville, where we ar- 
rived about midnight. 

Eleventh-month 27.— We came to Cincinnati to-day, about one 
P. m., and remained with our dear children, until next morning. 
Miriam went home this evening. 

28th. — We arrived at our depot just in time for our Monthly 
Meeting, to which we made return of our minutes. Our friends 
received us with much affection and cordiality ; sweet indeed it was 
to be again at home, and. in gratitude to our Father in heaven, I be- 



232 LIFEOF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1860. 

lieve our hearts were full for his preservations, kindness and mercy, 
with which we had been so largely favored in this long and inter- 
esting journey. Thanks be to God for the unspeakable gift of his 
Son; thanks for the gift and visitation of the Holy Spirit; and 
thanks for his goodness, providential care and mercy to us his fee- 
ble unworthy creatures, who have, through His grace some hunger- 
ing and thirsting after righteousness, and some ardent desire to be 
inheritors of his kingdom. We found our connections well, and 
were truly" rejoiced to' embrace them and mingle with them again. 

Thomas Stanley, who resides as a missionary with the Kaw 
Indians, in Kansas, was present, and contributions were solicited 
and made at his instance, for the relief of the sufferers in Kansas, 
on account of the failure of their crops by drought. He called 
to see us at home in the evening. 

Eleventh-month 29. — Thisday is appointed by the Governor of 
the State for a public thanksgiving. A quiet day. 

30th. — Elizabeth Moffat died this morning. 

To our Quarterly Meeting of Ministers and Elders, African Com- 
mittee and Auxiliary Bible Meeting : all good meetings. Anna 
Hobbs, Joseph Brown, of Canada, Smith Gregg and his companion 
Thomas Haskett, were with us to-day. 

Twelfth-month 1. — Our Education Committee, at nine A. m., as 
usual ; then our Quarterly Meeting, at the usual hour — a good meet- 
ing. The report of our deputation to North Carolina, was read and 
heartily responded to by the meeting. The meeting concluded to 
endeavor to raise one thousand dollars, for the aid of Friends in North 
Carolina. 

2d. — First-day. — Funeral of Elizabeth Moffat, before meeting. 
First-day school. Then to meeting. Smith Gregg and Enos G. 
Pray, very acceptably, engaged in the ministry, and Sarah Smith 
and Joseph Brown, in prayer. A Family Meeting was held at 
Charles', in the evening. E. G. P. and J. B. present. 

7th and 8th. — To Spiceland Quarterly Meeting, at "Walnut Bidge. 
It was very pleasant to receive a cordial greeting from my friends 
there. The report of the deputation was well received, and re- 
ceived a hearty response. The meeting concluded to endeavor 
to raise eight hundred dollars for our Carolina .friends. Staid at 
Bethuel White's, where we also had the agreeable company of 



I860.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 233 

my dear sister Mary, Isaac Parker, and brother and sister John 
and Rebecca Hiatt. Came home in the evening of Seventh-day. 

Gulielma Henly died on Seventh-day morning, the eighth. 

9th. — First-day. — Scriptural school at nine — sixty present. 

Family Meeting at Charles' in the evening. 

Twelfth-month 10. — Funeral of Gulielma Henly, at eleven — and 
meeting. 

11th. — Doctor Samuel D. Coffin, late from North Carolina, called 
to see us. Doctor Samuel Bettle Hill with him. 

Hearing that our dear aged mother is more feeble and poorly, we 
went out to see her. She is so failed as scarcely to know who we 
are, and appears to be in a good deal of discomfort — but can not 
tell, intelligibly, what her suffering is. 

20th. — Rachel Stanton died, at five o'clock A. m. 

Went to Earlham College and attended meeting and recitations. 

An awful excitement prevails in South Carolina and, generally, 
throughout the south, in political affairs. The South Carolina State 
Convention passed, to-day, at half-past one P. m., an Ordinance of 
Secession from the Union. It is, indeed, a most gloomy time. We 
seem to be on the verge of a crisis, such an one as we have never 
seen. " The Lord hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm," 
may he rule in his mercy for the good of the nation, and the saving 
of the people. 

23d. First-day. — To our Scriptural school — eighty present. To 
meeting as usual. In the afternoon, to Bible Class at Sevastopol. 

Family Meeting at C. F. C's in the evening. 

The weather has been wintry ', but not exceedingly severe. 

Twelfth-month 26. — Monthly Meeting. An unpleasant discussion 
about the right of resignation, J. S. H. having resigned his right 
of membership. Daniel Williams, Thomas Bond and John Knight 
attended meeting. 

29th. — George Evans and Luke Thomas, came in to-day. In the 
evening we visited Levi Jessup's. 

30th. — To Scriptural school, as usual. Seventy-three present. 
The Bible classes, among the elderly people and adult young per- 
sons, increase in interest. To the Family Meeting at Charles', at 
seven p. m. 

31st. — This morning is the coldest of the season since our return. 
The mercury was two degrees below zero. 
16 



234 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1861. 

First-month 1, 1861. — The winter, so far, has been rather mode- 
rate, with some pretty cold weather. We hear of much shortness 
of provisions and clothing in Kansas, and probability of suffering, 
on account of the great drought which prevailed in that territory 
last year, 1860. Much has been contributed in different parts for 
the relief of the people, and much more is still likely to be want- 
ing. In all the States north of forty degrees of latitude and east 
of the Missouri River, the crops of wheat, corn, oats, potatoes, and 
vegetables and fruits generally, were good, and in many places 
abundant. But Kansas, part of southern Missouri, part of south- 
ern Kentucky, and west Tennessee, part of Alabama and Texas, 
suffered much from want of rains, and their crops of corn and 
other grains and vegetables were reported to be very short in many 
places. 

I am engaged about home, and much of my time in compiling 
my little work of Scripture Exercises on the Old Testament to be 
added to the Book of Genesis and included with that, in one volume. 

We are feeling in degree the feebleness, tenderness and infirmi- 
ties of advancing age ; but my dear wife and myself would wish 
to bear in our hearts, deep and living gratitude and adoration for 
the many favors we enjoy from the Divine Giver, and the comforts 
and privileges with which we are surrounded. For these may we 
ever bless the good name of the Lord ! 

We have been reading together, with much interest, the " Me- 
moirs and Diary of John Yeardley," including an account, also, 
of his amiable and gifted wife, Martha Yeardley, a work which has 
not failed to edify us. 

3d. — I attended the Scripture recitation, and then the Meeting 
for Worship at Earlham College. There are about one hundred and 
fifty-seven students in attendance, who appear to be doing well — 
and the institute is in excellent order under the administration of 
Walter T. Carpenter and Susan M., his wife, as superintendent and 
matron. The teachers for this session are William B. Morgan, 
A. M., Dr. Zaccheas Test, Matthew Charles, Martha Ann Macy, 
Anna Miles, Hannah Coffin ; Clarkson Davis, governor, and Ann 
Eliza Brown, governess. 

5th. — The mercury is two degrees below zero this morning — one 
of the coldest of the season. I am now at " the captivity" in the 
Scripture Exercises. 



1861.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 235 

6th. — First-day. — Seventy-one students at our Scripture School. 
The number has been larger this winter than in any preceding one. 

8th. — The State of Mississippi secedes from the Union. 

11th — Yery exciting times continue in the south about secession. 
The ' ; Star of the West" is driven back to sea from Charleston. 

Alabama and Florida both secede. 

13th. — First-day. — Seventy-three at Scripture School. 

David Roberts died to-day. 

Family meeting at C. F. C.'s as usual, thirty-six present 

19th. — My labors on the Exercises have been continued. 

Georgia secedes from the Union : two hundred to eighty-nine. 

27th. — First-day. — Seventy-three present at Scripture School. 

Francis W. Thomas and Daniel Hill attended our meeting to-day. 
A glorious triumph of the gospel in the ministry of F. W. T. 

A good family meeting at C. F. C's in the evening, F. W. Tho- 
mas and D. Hill, present. 

First-month 28.— The State of Louisiana secedes from the U. S. 

Kansas is admitted as a State, by act of Congress. 

Central Book and Tract Committee meet to-day. 

Also, Executive Committee of Indiana Bible Association of 
Friends, — both good meetings. 

Second-month 1. — Texas secedes — one hundred and sixty-six to 
seven. 

2d. — Our wedding-day. Always thought on with interest. 

7th. — To Waynesville, via Cincinnati, to attend the Indian Com- 
mittee. I left my manuscript of-" Scripture Exercises on the Old 
Testament," in addition to the Book of Genesis, with E. Morgan 
k Sons, to be stereotyped and published — our Central Book and 
Tract Committee having encouraged its publication at their late 
meeting. 

Second-month 8th and 9th. — Attended the Indian Committee and 
the Quarterly Meeting. Went to Cincinnati, on the evening of the 
ninth. 

10th. — First-day. — To Friends Scriptural school, at half-past nine 
A. m. ; then to meeting. At two p. m. went with Mary and Hannah 
Amelia to the Bethel Sabbath School, for poor children. About 
seven hundred were present — the scene was a remarkable one. To 
Friends' meeting again in the evening — a quiet, solemn time. 



236 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1861- 

11th. — Attended to some business in Cincinnati, and then re- 
turned home. 

14th. — Our daughter, Caroline E. Ladd, is confined with a son. 
He is called James Edward. We have a good account of her con- 
dition. 

20th. — p. m. A message of anxiety came to us about the con- 
dition of our dear Caroline. 

Miriam and I left at half-past nine A. m. for William H. LadoYs. 
The day was a sad one to us, but we were somewhat relieved on 
arriving at Joseph Hammonds' — who told us that Caroline was 
better. 

Second -month 22. — We found our dear Caroline improved, which 
relieved us much. 
m 24th. — At Cross Creek Meeting. 

25th. — I visited Matthew and Eliza Watson. 
* 26th. — Caroline is now so much improved, that our daughter Han- 
nah Amelia (who had gone before us) and I, left for our respective 
homes. We came, together, to Dayton, and then parted, on the 
morning of the twenty-seventh. 

27th. — David H. Bennett and Anna Thornburgh attended our 
Monthly Meeting to-day. 

Third-month 1.— Sixth-day. — Our friend, Joseph Doan died, sud- 
denly, to-day. I esteemed him a valuable Christian man; an eldes 
in the church, and a minister of Christ ; one who accepted the 
message and truths of the Grospel, as found in the Holy Scriptures, 
in simplicity of faith, and in the love of them. He has been a 
useful and efficient laborer in the discipline of the church for many 
years ; many, many times have I been connected with him in various 
important engagements. He desired, I believe, to make his life 
consistent with his profession. By his death we have lost a valu- 
able member, a Christian associate, a brother beloved, one of those 
whom we esteemed as standard bearers, who had given in their 
names to the service of Christ. May it please the Lord to raise up 
other instruments to take the place of those who, in his inscrutable 
will and wisdom he sees fit to remove to their heavenly rest. My 
mind dwells on the memory of this brother in peace; I have much 
confidence that the Lord has taken him into his kingdom above. 

Our select Quarterly Meeting was held to-day, which was a good 
meeting. We had also a good time at our Quarterly Meeting, on 



1861.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 237 

the second, David H. Bennett, Anna Thornburg, Francis W. Tho- 
mas and Ruth Haisley, were present, and had acceptable testi- 
mony for Jesus. 

Our meeting united, with a request from Kansas, to establish 
a Quarterly Meeting in that State, and forwarded the request to the 
Yearly Meeting. 

First-day 3.— We had forty-three at our Scriptural school. The 
morning was inclement. 

Third-month 4. — To-day Abraham Lincoln, our President elect, 
takes the chair. May the Divine blessing attend his administration. 

5th. — The President's inauguration was conducted peaceably. 
His cabinet officers are : 

.Secretary of State, William H. Seward, New York. 
„ Treasury, Salmon P. Chase, Ohio. 

,, War, Simon Cameron, Pennsylvania. 

„ Navy, Gideon Welles, Connecticut. 

,, Interior, Caleb B. Smith, Indiana. 

Postmaster General, Montgomery Blair, Maryland. 
Attorney General, Edward Bates, Missouri. 

6th. — The winter session of Earlham College closed to-day. It 
has been a prosperous session, having between one hundred and 
fifty and one hundred and sixty students* 

A meeting at C. F. C's. to-night. D. H. Bennett, present. 

9th. — Decease of Rebecca Grellet, widow of Stephen Grellet, of 
Burlington, New Jersey, aged eighty-nine. Her father was Isaac 
Collins : she is removed in a good old age. 

Third-month 10. — First-day. — Snow this morning ; yet eighty 
attended our Scriptural school. 

Meeting this evening at C. F. C's. ; forty to fifty^ present. 

17th. — Ninety-six at our Scriptural school this morning. 

This is the day appointed for release of twenty-two millions Rus- 
sian serfs from bondage. An event affecting the well-being of so 
large a number of the human family can not fail to be interesting, 
and its issues will be looked to with interest. 

I have been engaged, recently, in producing some essays on 
"Friends in North Carolina," for Friends' Review. 

21st. — The weather has been cold for the season several days 
past. Yesterday and to-day there is snow. 

22d. — Robert Williams died this evening* 



238 LIFE OF ELD All COFFIN, [1861. 

24th. — First-day. Eighty-four at Scriptural school. 

A large meeting to-day. David Ii. Bennett and Francis W. Tho- 
mas, both, in attendance. A wonderful flow and triumph of the 
Gospel. Glory be to our God. 

I attended the Scriptural school of the people of color this P. M. 

Good evening meeting, as usual, at C. F. C's. 

25th.— Funeral of Robert Williams, largely attended. David 
H. Bennett, Enos G. Pray, and Rachel Bundy present. A solemn 
time. 

26th. — A storm, with hail this p. M. 

Summer session at Earlham College opens. 

29th. — The committee met at the college at one P. m. 

Fourth-month 4. — Death of John McLean, aged seventy-six, at 
Cincinnati, a distinguished citizen and judge of United States Su- 
preme Court. 

6th. — Seventh-day. — A Meeting at Bethel of the General Com- 
mittee, on First-day schools, of our Quarterly meeting. 

7th. — One hundred and seven at our Scriptural school this A. M. 

About fifty at meeting this evening at Charles F. Coffin's. 

We are reading the Life of Stephen Grellet, by Benjamin See- 
bohm, in which we are deeply interested. 

12th. — Samuel Bettle, senior, of Philadelphia, died to-day, at an 
advanced age. He was, for several years clerk of Philadelphia 
Yearly Meeting. 

My Scripture Exercises on the Old Testament, to be added to the 
book of Genesis, and make one volume, are now in the hands of the 
stereotypers. 

13th. — Report is received of the bombardment and surrender of 
Fort Sumpter, in the Charleston harbor, by the South Carolinians, 
and the surrender thereof by Major Anderson, United States com- 
mander. This is looked upon as the beginning of cival war. An 
exceeding great excitement runs through the whole nation. 

The President calls for seventy-five thous#nd volunteers to de- 
fend Washington and aid in subduing rebellion, and enforcing the 
laws of the United States. 

This call was responded to by all the free States ; and the num- 
ber required was offered in about a week. We have had a week of 
eool, wet weather. 



1861.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 239 

14th. — One hundred and thirty-three attended our Scripture 
school this morning. 

About forty at the family meeting at Charles F. Coffin's this 
evening. 

15th. — Philadelphia Yearly Meeting opens to-day. We hear 
that our friend John Hodgkin has arrived from England on a re- 
ligious visit. Susan Howland is also in attendance at Philadel- 
phia. 

17th. — Volunteer companies are rapidly being formed. 

18th. — The Virginia State Convention joins the Secessionists. 
Joseph J. G. Russell arrived from North Carolina. 

19th. — Harper's Ferry armory partly destroyed by the officers 
and soldiers in command, to prevent it from falling into the hands 
of the Secessionists. 

20th. — A mob at Baltimore, and several killed, on the occasion 
of a company of Massachusetts volunteers passing through. 

21st. — First-day. — Last evening our children, Eli and Mary C. 
Johnson came in from Cincinnati, and with them on a visit to the 
Sabbath schools here, Bellamy Storer, Joseph Emery, George F. 
Davis, and H. H. Brown. They attended our school this morning 
(one hundred and fifty-nine present), and made some suitable re- 
marks. 

Two of them, Joseph Emery and George F. Davis, attended our 
Meeting of Worship. 

A general Union Sabbath School Meeting was held at the Starr 
Hall, at three o'clock p. m., which we attended. It was full to 
overflowing. 

22d. — Family Meeting for Worship this morning, at Charles F. 
Coffin's. The four visitors from Cincinnati attended. A time of 
prayer. The visitors then left for Cincinnati. 

Many volunteers now collecting. Great excitement generally. 

23d. — We have a fine day — the weather nearly to summer warmth. 
Peach trees and cherry trees in bloom. We were preparing our 
garden; and planting our peas and beans. 

I read proof-sheets of my "Scripture Exercises." 

26th. — Pear trees in bloom. Heavy rain in the evening. 

28th. — First-day. — One hundred and sixty-one at Scriptural 
school. 



240 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN.' 1861,] 

In the afternoon I visited the German Lutheran Scriptural 
school. About sixty in attendance. 

29th. — The regular Meeting of our Central Book and Tract Com- 
mittee was held at ten o'clock A. M., and of the Executive Commit- 
tee of the Indiana Bible Association, at one o'clock p. m. Both in- 
teresting meetings. A laborious but edifying day. Heavy rain at 
night. 

Elijah Coffin loved the beautiful things of nature. To 
him not only did " the heavens declare the glory of God, 
and the firmament show his handy work," but he cherished 
every flower, and the most common garden herb which 
adorns the bosom of the earth. By his frequent mention 
of the different varieties which came under his notice, in 
the remaining entries of his journal, it is obvious that his 
admiration for them increased as he neared the close of his 
earthly scenes. 

30th. — A fine morning. The apple-trees and lilacs in bloom. 
Went to Hiram Hadley's school, at Whitewater, to hear a class in 
Scripture. 

Fifth-month 1. — I am writing some essays for Friends' Be view, 
on " Friends in North Carolina." 

We went to meeting at New Garden ; and afterward visited our 
dear aged friends Francis and Lydia Thomas. Then returned in 
the evening. 

2d and 3d. — I went to Cincinnati for an astronomical clock for 
the Observatory, at Earlham College. The stereotype of my "Scrip- 
ture Exercises on the Old Testament," is nearly completed. 

Extensive military preparations are now in progress in the north- 
ern and western States. 

9th. — Most of our garden seeds are now planted. Eli and Mary 
C. Johnson came this afternoon. 

10th. — Decease of our beloved friend Christina Macy, of Nan- 
tucket. 

12th. — First-day. — Yery rainy. One hundred and twenty-one 
at Scriptural school. Zeri and Miriam Hough were with us. 

19th. — One hundred and forty at Scriptural school this morning. 



1861.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 141 

Mary Amelia, only daughter of 0. F. and R. M. Coffin, expired 
suddenly, after a very short illness, at twenty minutes past four 
o'clock this afternoon. This is, indeed, a sharp affliction. We 
pray that they, and each one of the rest of us, may bear it man- 
fully, and in a proper, humble spirit. 

20th. — The North Carolina Convention passes a secession ordi- 
nance. 

21st. — Funeral of little Mary Amelia this morning largely at- 
tended. A solemn, tendering time. 

26th. — A Bible Meeting was held this afternoon. 

27th. — Visited the encampment of soldiers at the Fair ground, 
and distributed one hundred and fifty testaments, and twelve hun- 
red tracts. 

29th. — A committee on a proposed alteration of our Discipline, 
convened this afternoon ; also one on the arrangement of business 
of our Yearly Meeting. In both, the conference together was 
agreeable. 

30th. — Fifth-day. — Our Meeting for Sufferings convened at ten 
o'clock A. M.; then again at three o'clock p. M.; then adjourned 
until eight o'clock A. m., 31st. — Some important business was trans- 
acted, and at the last sitting an Epistle of Caution and Counsel 
to our Subordinate Meeting and members was adopted, relating 
mainly to the civil war now in progress, but embracing advice 
against the circulation of mischievous documents, and on some 
other subjects. 

The Quarterly Meeting of Ministers and Elders convened at 
eleven o'clock a. m., and was a good meeting. 

Sixth-month 1. — Seventh-day. — The Quarterly Meeting was large, 
and favored with the good Presence. We had with us our friends 
George Carter, Thomas Arnett, Jacob Hadley, Phebe Cook, of 
Westfield, Indiana, Cornelius Douglass, and others. The Epistle 
above alluded to was read and united with. 

2d.— Our Scriptural school was largely attended this morning 
(one hundred and sixty-two students, and many visitors), and was 
followed by a large Meeting for Worship. A good meeting; also 
a good meeting in the evening at Charles F. Coffin's. 

3d. — Visited the encampment of soldiers at the Fair ground again, 
and distributed thirty-seven Testaments, and about twelve hundred 
tracts. 



242 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1861. 

4tli. — My strength is very feeble, but I am preparing to set off 
to Kansas in company with Jonathan Baldwin to visit and examine 
our Shawnee Indian establishment, by appointment of our last 
Yearly Meeting. 

He first alludes himself to the declining state of his 
health in the above note. For about two months previous 
to this date, disease was stealthily planting its impress upon 
the subject of this memoir. It began in the stomach, and 
at first had the appearance of a return of dyspepsia, with 
which he had suffered some years previous. He describes 
it himself, in a letter of subsequent date, as a " weakness 
of stomach, and torpor of digestion." Simple remedies were 
used, strict attention was given to diet, domestic exercise 
was taken io the open air, and horseback riding, were all 
resorted to, which, failing to relieve him, he applied to a 
physician, and began medical treatment ; however, it soon 
became apparent to his family and friends that he was los- 
ing in strength and flesh. During this feeble state of 
health, in addition to a large private correspondence, he 
continued his literary labors, preparing a new volume of 
" Scripture Exercises," some essays for Friends' Review, 
relative to " Friends in North Carolina," and other objects 
of interest in connection with his religious Society. These, 
undoubtedly, tended to aggravate the disease, and it pro- 
gressed slowly and surely. It was hoped that the proposed 
journey to Kansas might have a beneficial effect upon his 
now very reduced state of health. 

5th. — Set off for Kansas this morning, at five o'clock, in company 
with Jonathan Baldwin. We had some delay in connection at 
Indianapolis, and again at Lafayette ; but proceeded comfortably 
through the night, and arrived at Quincy at nine o'clock A. M., the 
6th. After crossing the Mississippi, we took the road to the 
Palmyra Junction, and there came upon the Hannibal and St. 
Joseph Road, on which we traveled during the afternoon and 



1861.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 243 

evening, in a, direction nearly west, through a very fine country ; 
arrived at St. Joseph at eleven o'clock p. m. We continued down 
the Missouri by railway to Iatan, where we took a boat for Leaven- 
worth City, and arrived there at five o'clock A. M., on the 7th. 
Rested at a hotel until after dinner, then went by hack to William 
H. Coffin's. 

We remained at W. H. C.'s during the 8th and 9th, visiting 
some in the neighborhood on the 8th, and on the 9th attended the 
Scripture school, then meeting, at Kansas. They had sixty-two in 
attendance at the school, and about one hundred in attendance at 
the Meeting for Worship, which followed. Jeremiah Hadley of 
Whitelick and Dr. James Kersey were also at the meeting. 

10th. — Jonathan, William, Benajah W. Hiatt and myself set off 
for Friends' Shawnee Mission, via Lawrence, in a carriage. We 
passed through rich, beautiful prairie country on the way to Law- 
rence, and crossing the Kansas River, came to that place about 
three o'clock p. m. After remaining an hour or so, to attend ,to 
some business and make some inquiries, we proceeded eastward 
toward the Mission ten or eleven miles, and staid the night with 
our friends Jonathan and Phebe Mendenhall, in the vicinity of 
Eudora. The country through which we passed, after leaving 
Lawrence, is level prairie and very rich. 

11th. — We called at Levi Woody's ; then visited two Indian 
chiefs, who reside not far off; first, Charles Fish, whom we found 
so intoxicated that we were not able to obtain information from 
him, or have any satisfaction with him. His wife is a fine-looking 
person, and intelligent in appearance. Next, Paschal Fish, his 
brother, some two miles or more off. He is a sober, intelligent 
person ; speaks English well ; and makes religious profession. 
They both have good farms, and Paschal has a frame dwelling, in 
good order. 

Proceeded next, via Lexington, to De Soto, where we had some 
hope of finding James B. Abbott, the newly appointed agent of the 
Shawnees. But he had gone to Westport ; so we proceeded for- 
ward to Shawnee, and thence, after making arrangement to see the 
agent to-morrow on his return, we went to Friends' Mission, dis- 
tant from Shawnee about two and a half miles. We found the 
family and school well, and were kindly received. There are now 



244 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1861. 

twenty-four Indian and three white children — twenty-seven in all — 
under Lydia Butler as teacher. 

12th.— We visited the school in the morning ; then went to the 
house of Graham Rogers, the presiding chief of the Shawnees ; 
but he was gone from home. His wife and his mother Ootsiqua 
treated us respectfully. Graham owns a large farm of good land, 
and his dwelling is respectable and comfortable. After leaving the 
dwelling, we passed a large wheat field of one hundred acres or 
more ; the wheat looking very well. We regretted not finding 
him at home. After twelve o'clock m., we went to Shawnee to 
meet the agent, and had an opportunity of laying our request 
before him, that he would aid us in obtaining a more perfect title 
for our school farm — three hundred and twenty acres — which he 
heard with respect, and promised assistance. We were also intro- 
duced to Matthew King, another Shawnee chief, and Samuel M. 
Cornatzer, secretary of the Shawnee council. 

We returned to the Mission, and in the evening walked over the 
large farm. The growing crops all look well ; but we fear that the 
superintendent, James Stanley, has more on hand than he can 
accomplish, and that the corn will suffer for want of tillage. 

13th. — Visited the school, and was engaged in preparing papers, 
in the forenoon. Then, after dinner, visited the Mission of the 
Methodist Church South, about four or five miles distant, which 
has been superintended by Thomas Johnson. This Mission would 
appear to have been undertaken upon a magnificent scale ; there 
are three sections (one thousand nine hundred and twenty acres) 
of land attached to the establishment, of a first-rate quality ; the 
location is extremely beautiful ; the dwelling, school and chapel 
buildings, boarding-house, and other buildings, appear to have 
been arranged of sufficient magnitude and capacity to educate all 
the children of the Shawnees. The income is very large ; it has 
enjoyed the entire patronage of the government; but yet, from the 
very small number (about seven or eight) of Shawnee children 
now at school, and the dilapidated and shattered condition of the 
buildings generally, it gives to visitors like us the idea of a perfect 
failure. The Shawnee agent has received a commission to examine 
the concern, and possibly some considerable changes may soon be 
made as to the exclusive favor of the government. We understand 
that a son of Thomas Johnson now has the superintendency of the 



1861.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 245 

concern ; but he was not at home. We were courteously received 
by the young man who is acting as teacher (who is a minister of 
the Methodist Church South) at the school, who afterward took us 
to the dwelling and introduced us to his wife. After a short stay 
we returned. 

11th. — We had an interesting interview with our Mission school, 
and asked them many questions on geography and Scripture. Their 
answers were very satisfactory, considering their experience, and 
showed that they had received much care and labor from their 
teacher, Lydia Butler, and from the superintendent and matron, 
James and Rachel Stanley. Then we arranged various matters of 
business, and soon after dinner parted with our friends at the 
Mission, and with the Indian children, and proceeded on our return 
to Kansas settlement of Friends. Our school is now composed of 
Indian children of the tribes named below : seven Shawnees, ten 
Ottawas, two Wyandottes, one Stockbridge, one Brotherton, one 
Seneca, one New York, and three white children (J. S.'s) — twenty- 
seven in all. 

In our way we passed Shawnee, crossed the Kansas river at the 
" Delaware Crossings," and came to the Baptist Mission, superin- 
tended by John G-. Pratt and wife. It was pouring rain, and we 
were kindly taken in. There are now about sixty-five children, all 
of the Delaware tribe of Indians, who appear to be well instructed 
by two female teachers, Elizabeth Morse and . 

Sixth-month 15. — We had an interesting interview with the school 
soon after nine o'clock; then set off to the north-west, and traveled 
through the beautiful and excellent lands of the Delawares, and 
reached Wm. H. Coffin's in the evening. 

16th. — First-day. — Rested; went to the Scripture school, and 
then attended meeting. Over sixty at school, and about one hun- 
dred at meeting. After meeting to Benajah W. Hiatt's, and to 
William's in the evening. 

17th. — We set off this morning for home. William and Bena- 
jah accompanied us to Leavenworth, where, after doing some busi- 
ness, we embarked on steamboat to Iatan, and thence by railway to 
St. Joseph, and staid at the Patte House, a large and well-conducted 
hotel. There are a considerable number'of government troops now 
here to protect the property, preserve the peace, and in the en- 
forcement of the laws. 



246 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1861. 

18th. — Set off at five o'clock on our way to Hannibal, to which 
place we came at four o'clock p. m. Troops were stationed at various 
places to protect the railway, and bridges, etc. From Hannibal to 
Quincy, by boat; and were off at six o'clock and forty minutes 
p. m., on the road across Illinois. 

19th. — We came to the Junction, near Lafayette, in the morning, 
to breakfast ; thence to Indianapolis, and home at twenty-five min- 
utes past three. Being very feeble and much prostrated, I was 
truly grateful to arrive again at sweet home, and to come again 
under the embrace and care of the loved ones there and there- 
about. 

The entries in Elijah Coffin's journal here cease. His 
increasing ill health, to which allusion is made in the above 
memorandum, rendered him unable to continue it, in addi- 
tion to his other engagements. 

He returned home from this journey but little benefited, 
the labor of traveling, his close engagements, while there, 
and the necessity of a speedy return, on account of the 
outbreak of hostilities in Missouri, caused the journey to 
prove rather a disadvantage to him than otherwise. 

In a pocket memorandum book which he had previously 
used for his notes, from which he compiled his journal, we 
find the following brief entries, which, if his health had 
permitted, would no doubt have been written out more fully 
on transcribing them into his journal. 

My cherries ripe at home. Yery feeble, resting at home. Cur- 
rants began to ripen. Daily news of skirmishes with federal and 
rebel troops. 

21st. — White lilies in bloom. A hot afternoon, ninety degrees. 

22d. — Dr. William Judkins died at three o'clock A. m. Still 
feeble, but better. Visited Matthew Barker. Funeral of Mary 
Thomas, at New Garden. 

24th. — Our strawberries are gone. Currants beginning to ripen. 

25th. — Catalpas in bloom. Raspberries beginning to ripen. 

26th. — Monthly Meeting. Gooseberries in season. 

29th. — White lillies in bloom. 



1861.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 247 

30th. — First-day. — Had a poorly afternoon. I have been very 
feeble and unwell for awhile past. 

Seventh-month 1. — A comet appeared in the northwest, with a 
tail reaching to the zenith. 

2d. — The comet is forty-five degrees above the horizon, in the 
northwest, and the tail reaches to the zenith and beyond. 

A beautiful prospect of the comet this morning, said to be the 
largest since 1812. 

6th. — Catalpas in bloom. The comet continues visible, but goes 
higher toward the zenith, and less of the tail is to be seen. 

7th. — First-clay. — A good Scripture school ; one hundred and 
forty-three present. I am some better, but feeble. 

8th. — Manilla cherries in season ; trees full this year. A fine 
rain ; much needed. 

9th. — My strength improves slowly. 

10th. — Our first early York cabbages. 

11th. — Went to Earlham College. 

13th. — The season of raspberries closed. Garden peas gone. 

14th. — First-day. — A very good Scripture school. in at- 
tendance. About fifty at family meeting at Charles F. Coffin's, this 
evening ; a good meeting. 

16th. — Skirmishes almost daily in AVestern Virginia, and occa- 
sionally in Missouri. 

17th. — The season of currants closed. My Scripture Exercises 
on the Old Testament, out to-day. 

18th. — The season of gooseberries closed. 

19th. — First peonies in bloom. A great battle in Eastern Vir- 
ginia threatened. 

20th. — The season of Manilla cherries closed. The grape-vines 
promise a fine yield this year. 

21st. — First-day. — One hundred and sixty-seven at Scripture 
school ; the largest of the season, and largest of any former attend- 
ance. Over fifty at family meeting at Charles F. Coffin's this 
evening. 

22d. — Hollyhock's in bloom. We hear of a terrible conflict be- 
tween the national troops and the rebels, at Manassas Junction on 
21st. 

23d. — First apples of the season, on the table. Blackberries 
coming in. Went to Jacob Graves' this morning. 



248 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1861. 

24th. — First tiger lilies in bloom. Monthly Meeting. 

25th. — Death of Thomas Frazier, near Salem, Iowa. 

28th. — One hundred and thirty-nine at Scripture school. First- 
day School Committee at four o'clock p. m. 

29th. — Central Book and Tract Committee. Executive Indiana 
Bible Association. A busy, but agreeable day. 

31st. — Thermometer ninety-four degrees. Eli Johnson went to 
Cincinnati. 

Eighth-month 1. — First newborn and beans. Thermometer ninety- 
two degrees. 

2d, — Thermometer eighty-three degrees at thirty minutes past 
nine o'clock A. M.; clear. Tiger lilies in full bloom. Mary C. 
Johnson went to Cincinnati. Thermometer ninety-five degrees at 
three o'clock P. M. Wife goes to Bethel. Bain. 

3d. — Whitewater Branch General Committee on First-day 
Schools, at Bethel, at ten o'clock a. m. E. C. to discourse twenty 
minutes, on the origin of the Bible, and history of translations 
[referring to himself]. Thermometer eighty-seven degrees, at 
eleven o'clock a. m. 

4th. — One hundred and forty-eight at Scripture school this A. M. 
A poorly afternoon. 

5th. — Very hot. Thermometer ninety degrees and over. M. M. 
and H. A. White came in from an eastern journey. Poorly again 
this afternoon. 

6th. — Still very hot. Death of Elisha Bates. 

Medical remedies failing to check the decline, and seeing 
that his life was seriously threatened, his physician and 
family urged him to try the invigorating influence of the 
sea air and bathing. Accompanied by his son C. F. C. 
and wife, and a friend, he reluctantly left home on the fol- 
lowing date. 

8th. — Set off at eleven o'clock p. m., for Atlantic City, New Jer- 
sey. 

9th. — Breakfasted at Coshocton, at seven o'clock A. M. Indian 
Committee at Miami to-day. Heard of the decease of Elisha Bates ; 
his burial was on the 7th. Passed Pittsburg, forty-five minutes 
past three o'clock P. M. All night in the cars. 



1861.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 249 

• 10th. — At Philadelphia, at thirty minutes past five o'clock a. m- 
Left at thirty minutes past seven o'clock, for Atlantic City. Miami 
Quarterly Meeting to-day. Arrived at Atlantic City at thirty min- 
utes past eleven o'clock a. m. First sea-bath at twelve o'clock m. 
Home at David Scattergood's. 

11th. — A fine sea-bath early this A. M. Meeting at J. M. Whit- 
all's, at half-past ten o'clock. Poorly; rested in the afternoon. 
Rain. 

12th — Went to the surf at five o'clock A. M. A northeast wind 
with rain. Poorly again this afternoon. 

In writing to his daughter H. A. W., he thus refers 
to his indisposition : 

" I can not say that I am better, my difficulties remain much the same, 
that distressing spasmodic paroxysm of the upper region of the stomach still 
comes upon me occasionally — and short of a total abstinence of food, I should 
scarcely know how to avoid it — frequently very distressing, but jmore or less 
so at times, while it lasts, say from two to four hours. Last night, after sup- 
per, I had a very ill turn until midnight perhaps, but am better this morn- 
ing." 

13th.— To the surf at five o'clock A. M. Charles left for Phila- 
delphia at fifteen minutes past six. A stormy day. Wind from 
northeast. 

14th. — Fourth-day. — Session ( of Earlham College closes. Prepa- 
rative Meeting of Ministers and Elders at home. 

15th. — Meeting at J. M. Whitall's, at ten o'clock a. m. Rode 
to the beach, then sailed to Brigantine beach, five miles. 

A pleasant sail. A fine day throughout. 

16th. — About the house, and wrote letters. Windy, cloudy and 
threatening rain. 

17th. — Rainy this morning. 

18th. — First-day. — A pleasant bath in the surf. Meeting at J. 
M. Whitall's at half past ten o'clock A. M. Scripture reading at 
J. M. Whitall's. 

19th. — A pleasant bath in the surf. Rode on the beach. 

20th. — Went crab fishing. Left Atlantic City andwent to Phil- 
adelphia. Home with my friends Thomas E. and Hannah Bees- 
ley, No. 32 Eleventh street. 

21st. — Attended to several matters in the city. To meeting at 
Twelfth street at ten o'clock A. M. Dinner at Dr. Beesley's. Wil- 
li 



250 LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. [1861. 

Kara Gr. Johnson present. Kode to Fairrnount, etc., with Thomas 
Kirnber ; then to tea with him. 

22d. — T. Kirnber went with me to several places in the city. 
Dinner at Dr. Beesley's. Left for Pittsburg at fifteen minutes past 
ten o'clock p. m. 

23d. — Breakfast at Altoona. At Pittsburgh at twelve o'clock m. 
Left in a boat at two o'clock. Staid at Wellsville. 

24th. — Off at three o'clock A. m. to Stubenvill'e. To William H. 
Ladd's at half past ten o'clock. Delightful weather. Had a poorly 
evening. 

25th.— -First-day.:— At William H. Ladd's. Went with William 
H. Ladd to meeting at Cross Creek. Had a poorly day. 

26th. — At William H. Ladd's. Caroline and I rode out. 

Death of John Morris. Fine weather continues. 

27th — At William H. Ladd's. Caroline and I rode out again. 

28th. — At William H. Ladd's. Caroline and I rode out. Felt my 
feebleness. William went over the Ohio river into Pennsylvania. 

29th. — At William H. Ladd's. Caroline and I rode out. Fine 
weather. Leave at two o'clock p. m. for Unionport, to take the cars 
homeward. 

30th. — Home at thirty-five minutes past four. A delightful day 
and weather. 

31st. — Poorly this morning. Another very fine day. 

This journey also proved insufficient, and he returned, 
not being in the least benefited. He was able to ride out 
and daily to give some attention to his common engage- 
ments; his continued interest in the various objects of a 
religious and philanthropic nature, in which he was engaged, 
led him to give them more attention than the state of his 
health justified. He devoted much of his time to concerns 
connected with the approaching Yearly Meeting, and the 
efforts of his pen were only abated when his exhausted 
strength demanded a cessation of labor. 

Ninth-month 1. — To Scripture school; one hundred and forty- 
nine present. Fine day. To meeting. Feeble this afternoon. 
2d. — Second-day. — Rode out. About home. 



1861.] "LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 251 

3d. — Rode out. About home. 

4th. — Rode out. Went to meeting. William H. Morgan, wife 
and daughter at meeting and home with us. 

5th. — Rode out. Poorly this afternoon; obliged to give up go- 
ing to Quarterly Meeting. 

6th. — John Hodgkin and Jeremiah Hacker arrived at Charles 
F. Coffin's last night. They go off to Quarterly Meeting this morn- 
ing. I can not go. Auxiliary Bible Meeting at three o'clock. 

7th.— Peaches ripening. Quarterly Meeting at Milford. A 
good meeting, I hear. John Hodgkin and Jeremiah Hacker, David 
Hunt and wife present. 

8th. — Eliza P. Gurney, John M. Whitall, and Mary his wife, 
came at half past four, yesterday. John and Mary Whitall go 
with us to Scripture school. Eliza attended meeting. A good 
meeting. John Hodgkin at Milford, but came here and attended 
Family Meeting at Charles F. Coffin's. 

9th. — I went to our college with John and Mary Whitall. In 
the afternoon, the Friends went to an appointed meeting of John 
Hodgkin, near the village of Boston. They returned in the evening. 

10th. — Eliza P. Grurney, and her companions, go homeward at 
half past nine o'clock a. M. John Hodgkin and company go west- 
ward to Spiceland at fifteen minutes past ten o'clock. I am but 
feeble to-day. The weather has been very dry recently. Rain 
this evening. 

11th. — Rain; refreshing and most acceptable. A marriage of 
Elgar Brown, junior, with Sarah Bond to-day. Weather wet. I 
was two feeble to attend meeting. 

A change of physicians will explain the following note. 
Elijah Coffin had been under medical treatment for some 
time previous to this date. 

12th. — About home. Poorly. Consulted Dr. Baer. 

13th. — Much in health as yesterday. Friends passed through 
going to Western Yearly Meeting. G-rapes ripening. 

14th. — Peaches in full season. Rain. About the house, and 
poorly. Western Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders. Heavy 
rain. 

15th. — Rain last night. Too feeble to go to Scripture school or 
meeting. Western Yearly Meeting. A fine day. 



252 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1861. 

16th. — Western Yearly Meeting of Business. 

17th. — We hear good reports from Western Yearly Meeting. I 
am still in poor health. Dr. Bear visits me daily. 

18th. — Not able to go to meeting. Preparative Meeting. 

20th. — Western Yearly Meeting. About home these days ; quite 
poorly. 

22d. — Not able to go to meeting. I am still quite poorly. 

24th. — John Henry Douglas came to see me. 
'' 25th. — Monthly Meeting. I did not attend — too unwell. 

27th. — Edith Griffith came in to see me, on a visit. Spent the 
day acceptably with me. David and Sarah Ann Hunt came in to 
see me. 

28th. — Edith Griffith left at nine o'clock A. M. for Cincinnati. 
Weather cool. John Hodgkin came to Charles F. Coffin's. 

29th. — First frost last night. I did not attend Scripture school, 
but attended meeting. Feeble. John Hodgkin, David Hunt, and J. 
H. Douglas present. John Hodgkin had a public meeting at four 
o'clock p. M. — probably two thousand persons present — about seven 
hundred soldiers. 

30th. — Our daughters Mary and Hannah Amelia arrived. Eli- 
zabeth Meader and companions arrived. A fine day. Gathered 
some grapes. 

Tenth-month 1. — Elizabeth Meader and companions, Henry T. 
Wood and wife, called. Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders at 
ten o'clock A. m.; I attended an hour and a half. Certificates were 
read for John Hodgkin, Elizabeth Meader, Mary Thomas, Samuel 
Lloyd, Edward Jenkins, Mary Elliot, Martha Watkins and Joseph 
Haviland. The Meeting for Sufferings at three o'clock; I hear it 
was a good meeting. 

2d. — Executive Committee of Indiana Bible Association at ten 
A. M. at the school-house ; the report adopted. Annual Meeting 
of Central Book and Tract Committee at six o'clock P. m; a good 
meeting. 

3d. — Yearly Meeting at ten o'clock; decidedly smaller than here- 
tofore ; I attended one hour and twenty minutes ; a good sitting. 
African Committee at four o'clock p. m. Education Committee at 
six o'clock p. m.; reported large and interesting. 

4th. — Meeting for Sufferings at eight o'clock. Yearly Meeting 
at ten o'clock A. m.,j the attendance fuller; I attended one hour and 



1861.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 253 

thirty-five minutes : state of Society considered. Bible Meeting at 
six o'clock p. m. 

Those who were privileged to attend the sitting of the 
Yearly Meeting above alluded to, will retain a lively mem- 
ory of the erect but wasted form of him who has performed 
his allotted task on earth, and become a memher of the 
"General Assembly and Church of the First-born," in 
Heaven, as he pressed the claims of personal religion upon 
his hearers in a communication of almost half an hour in 
length. He says : 

Our Saviour had a significant meaning when he said: "Feed my lambs — 
feed my sheep;" and the Apostle when he said: " Feed the flock of God." A 
proper concern has been felt by many because some of our youth do not man- 
ifest all that attachment to our principles and practice which we desire. A 
very serious inquiry arises, why this should be so, and a deep sense of our 
responsibility should take hold of our minds. If those who are further ad- 
vanced in years, and on whom the weight of Society mainly rests, do not mani- 
fest an example of hearty devotedness to Christ, and commend that example by 
sound, careful, tender instruction; if they do not through the aid of the Holy 
Spirit dispense spiritual food, they can not expect a growing attachment to 
their profession in the youth. Care as the outward restraints is necessary 
and indispensable, as well as a due regard to our Christian testimonies, to 
plainness of speech and apparel. But these alone, without spiritual nourish- 
ment and instruction, would be like starving the flock within the fold which 
protects it from outside dangers. So if our youth, on being awakened to some 
sense of their spiritual need — on coming to hunger and thirst after righteous- 
ness, and to feel an interest in their eternal welfare, should not find living 
bread at home, they will be likely to seek for it elsewhere. So also those who 
are not awakened, will fail to see anything attractive in our forms, except a re- 
fined morality, where there is no life of religion making its impression from 
those to whom they look. Let us, therefore, be stirred up to a due sense of our 
situation and responsibilities. Let the love of Christ, and a hearty devotion 
appear in our lives, and conduct, and words. Let prayer abound — not prayer 
talked of, but prayer practiced ** with the spirit and with the understanding also." 
Do our children^ ever hear us pray? Do they know that we ever do pray? 
While we may inadvertently or otherwise speak slightly of the prayer of others, 
are we not in danger of suppressing right exercises in our youth, and of the 
fearful error of "quenching the spirit?" Let us practice devotional family 
reading. The Holy Scriptures and the Holy Spirit assuredly come to our aid. 
In all devotional exercises, the only test is whether they are owned or attended 
by the Spirit of Christ. If they are, all opposition proceeds from a wrong source 
Our testimony lies against formal and lifeless prayer. Let us encourage those 



254 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1861. 

who are religiously exercised, and help, instruct, correct, and lead forward 
such in a loving spirit. And at small meetings where there may be little of 
the life of religion, let the members be stirred up to greater practical devoted- 
ness and life in their profession. " Let their meetings be held in the power of 
God;" and we believe that where our profession is commended by the over- 
flowing of the love of God, the attachment of our youth and others will be se- 
cured, and that Society and fellowship, and love, and unity, will grow and in- 
crease. We should also remember our inherent and guaranteed privileges of 
family worship, either in single families, or where others may join as a private 
social engagement. And families living remote or while traveling, are en- 
couraged to attend to this solemn duty and obligation, which would tend to 
keep up the life in themselves and their families, and commend their profession 
to others. 

These remarks of Elijah Coffin were characterized by a 
spirit of earnest zeal for the Master ; the meeting directed 
the clerk to embody them in the minute on the state of 
Society. 

5th. — Ministers and Elders at eight o'clock. Yearly Meeting at 
ten o'clock ; the meeting full. I attended one hour and forty-five 
minutes. Indian reports. Committee of Boarding-School, etc. — r 
General First-day School Committee at four o'clock p. m. 

Eli Johnson came in at ten o'clock. Rain. 

6th. — First-day. — Rain. Large Meeting for Worship atl6 o'clock 
A. M. I attended one hour and a half. John Hodgkin spoke fifty 
minutes. Another large meeting at three o'clock p. M. A Meet- 
ing of Youth at seven o'clock ; house full. 

7th. — Yearly Meeting at ten o'clock. I attended until twelve 
o'clock. Additional exercise on the state of Society. John Hodg- 
kin's Meeting for Youth at four o'clock p. m.; house full. 

Sth. — Yearly Meeting at eleven o'clock. I attended until thirty 
minutes past twelve. Yearly Meeting closed at three o'clock p. m. 
Many Friends departed homeward. John Hodgkin and companion 
and Dr. Beesley left at eleven o'clock p. m. for Philadelphia. 

The Sabbath School Conference of Friends, which was to 
be held at Cincinnati, during the week following the Yearly 
Meeting, had promise of being an occasion full of interest, 
to one who so much loved the Sabbath school interests as 
Elijah Coffin ; and although scarcely able to leave the pre- 



1851.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 255 

cincts of his \ own threshold, he could not easily forbear 
making the attempt to be present. His family also did not 
feel fully satisfied without still further efforts being made to 
arrest the progress of his disease, and much desired that his 
case might be examined by a valued physician and friend 
of the family, Dr. David Judkins, in Cincinnati, which be- 
ing strongly urged by personal friends, who were attending 
the Yearly Meeting, in compliance with their wishes, he set 
off, accompanied by his eldest daughter and son, C. F. C. ; 
and his wife, for this double purpose. 

9th. — Received several calls this morning. I left home at four 
o'clock P. m., with our children, for Cincinnati. Arrived at thirty- 
minutes past eight o'clock, having suffered on the way much pain. 

10th. — Eeceived a call from Dr. D. Judkins. Meeting at eleven 
o'clock ; I did not attend. Scripture School Conference met at 
half-past two o'clock p. m. I was appointed to preside pro tern.; an 
interesting company present. Had a very poorly night. 

11th. — Felt low this morning. I attended the morning session 
for a short time. Went again to the afternoon session for awhile. 
A session in the evening. I did not go. 

12th. — Had a comfortable night. Attended the Conference for 
a short time. Conference closed at half-past one o'clock. Many 
members left for home in the evening. 

13th. — First-day. — Had a night in a good degree comfortable- 
Rode out at ten o'clock A. M. Attended meeting at eleven o'clock, 
the forepart of the time. Elizabeth Comstock, a Friend minister 
from Michigan, Joseph Haviland, Henry Rowntree, Edward Jen- 
kins and others present. 

14th. — At Eli Johnson's. Dr. Judkins' visits me daily. Rode 
out to the fortifications. Rode again in the afternoon. Read proof- 
sheets of Minutes. 

15th. — At Eli Johnson's. Very fine weather. Rode out in the 
city. 

16th. — At Eli Johnson's. Rode over to Covington and beyond. 
Read proof-sheets of Minutes. A new watch. Fine weather still, 
but cloudy. 

17th. — Monthly Meeting "at Cincinnati. I attended through 



256 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1861. 

Meeting for ^Worship. Very rainy all day. My weight to- 
day is one hundred and twenty-two pounds. Went out again in 
the afternoon. Eli went to St. Louis. 

18th. — Rained until past midnight last night. Hannah A. rode 
out with me this morning. Cloudy and wet to-day. Fagged with 
a fine ride to Mount Auburn, this afternoon. 

19th. — -Had a pleasant ride with Mary. Still very feeble, yet 
Dr. Judkins thinks I am some better. The first form of the Yearly 
Meeting minutes is being printed to-day. My dear wife came in 
this evening. 

20th. — I rode out with Mary, then attended meeting. 

21st. — At Eli Johnson's. The printing of the Yearly Meeting 
minutes nearly completed. 

22d. — At Eli Johnson's. Eli gone to St. Louis. Rode out each 
day into the city. I am at work at the Annual Bible Report. 

23d.— At Eli Johnson's. 

24th. — Went to meeting, and staid nearly an hour. Read the 
proof-sheets of the Bible Report. Felt a little better than last 
two days. Fine weather. 

25th. — At Eli's. My weight to-day is one hundred and sixteen 
pounds. I am not so well to-day. My wife is to go home in the 
morning. 

26th. — My wife left early for Richmond. I am to stay a few 
days longer. 

27th. — I went to meeting and staid part of it. First-day School 
Committee and Teacher's Meeting at four o'clock P. M., at White- 
water. 

28th.— Had a very poorly day. More comfortable this evening. 

29th. — Left early for Richmond. My nurse, Anthony Graines, 
went with me. Arrived at fifteen minutes past ten o'clock, truly 
thankful to get again to our own sweet home. This is one of my 
better days. 

He derived benefit while at Cincinnati, by the removal 
of acute pain, but there was almost a complete loss of 
power on the part of his stomach, and the nutrition he re- 
ceived from the food he could take (which was less than 
one quarter the allowance for a man of ordinary health), 



1861.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN, 257 

was not sufficient for one of his mental exertion and toil, 
and he returned home in a hopeless decline. He was at 
this time engaged in arranging articles for publication, 
reading proof, etc. 

30th. — Very cool and blustery last night ; cloudy and gloomy 
this morning. I was not able to attend meeting. 

31st.— Weather still cloudy, gloomy and rainy. I am a good 
deal poorly. 

Eleventh-month 1. — Dark weather. My condition about the 
same. I ride out a little most days. 

2d. — Weighed one hundred and fifteen and a half pounds, with 
one coat on. Weather wet and gloomy. 

3d. — Dark, cool wet weather. John Jones and Jesse T. Williams 
at meeting. I was not able to attend. Henry Dickinson of New 
York, also here. Large family meeting at C. F. C's. I could not 
be there. H. D. and J. T. W. present. 

The daily practice of light domestic exercises had been 
advised by his medical attendant. 

4th. — Second-day. — A fine bright morning. I was exceedingly 
feeble yesterday. At work at gate and wood-house. 

5th. — James Hunnicutt died this morning, at two o'clock, aged 
ninety-two years and nine months. 

6th. — Funeral of James Hunnicutt, at ten o'clock A. M. I went 
to the meeting-house, and remained an hour. 

7th. — Our dear Caroline, with Ellen, Charles, and James, the 
baby, came in this morning. Yery fine weather. I am very feeble. 

8th. — I rode out to the college this morning, with Caroline. I 
have been getting off orders for new tracts. Fine weather. Took 
more exercise than I was able for. 

9th. — Had a low night ; a little better this morning, but low. 
Rode out at ten o'clock. Wrote to Dr. Weed about tracts. Spent 
the day mostly about the house. Received a refreshing letter from 
L. M. Ferris. Worked some at our Bible papers. 

10th. — -First-day. — Passed a more comfortable night. Cloudy 
this morning. I did not feel able to go to Scripture school on 
meeting. 



258 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1861. 

11th. — Our Caroline still here with us most acceptably. 

12th. — About home. Very feeble ; too much so, to be out much. 
News this week of the taking of Beaufort, N. C. 

13th. — I went to our Select Preparative Meeting, to unburden 
myself of two matters of concern, which I did, and soon after re- 
turned. 

14th.— Very feeble, but I do a little correspondence nearly every 
day, and am able to read some, which is a great favor. Death of 
Elizabeth Evans, of Philadelphia, at one o'clock A. m., this morning, 
at Salem, N. J. 

15th. — My wife and Miriam went to visit Earlham College, this 
morning. My stomach appears some better. My wife is sixty -four 
years of age to-day. 

In a letter to a friend, under the above date, he writes : 

* * * " I send a message of love and remembrance to thee; I am very feeble, 
scarcely able to walk, but about the house most of the day. My wife is also 
very infirm. I desire in everything to give thanks, and to remember with 
abounding gratitude the many mercies and favors which I have been, and am 
yet permitted to enjoy." * * * 

On the 19th of the month, he writes to his son W. H. 
C, as follows : 

* * * "I can take very little food, and that strictly selected. * * * 

" My flesh and strength have well nigh departed. I can only just walk; but 
when easy can get along cheerfully, and endeavor to cultivate a grateful heart 
to the God and Father of all our gifts, mercies and comforts." * * * 

To Robert and Sarah Lindsay, he writes : 

* * * « I trust we are in a good measure submissive to our condition, with- 
out any disposition to murmur; but desiring that grateful thanks may abound 
in our hearts from day to day, to the Author of mercies and God of all com- 
forts, for the many blessings and favors which we are continually allowed 
to be partakers of." * * * 

16th. — This is one of my better days. I rode out and enjoyed 
it. A fine day of sunshine. 

17th. — First-day. — Cloudy and gloomy. I did not feel able to 
go to Scripture school, or to meeting. I note my sixty-third year 
of age to-day. 



1861.] LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. 259 

18th. — A fine day. I rode out. My sister Mary sixty-nine 
years old. Death of David Evans. 

19th. — A fine morning. Very light frosts as yet. 

20th. — A fine day. I rode out. 

21st. — A very fine day. Called Dr. Baer, for wife. My brother, 
Elisha, is eighty-two years old. 

22d. — It is quite cloudy this morning. The weather is dark and 
stormy, with much rain and wind in the afternoon. The winter 
seems approaching. 

23d. — A cold, blustery, stormy night. Cloudy and dark, with 
some snow to-day. We have some snow this evening. Very win- 
try, with wind. 

24th. — First-day — The earth is covered with a beautiful coat of 
snow, two or three inches in depth, this morning, and snow still 
falling. Cloudy and dark. Thermometer to-day twenty-four de- 
grees. Over ninety students at Scripture school. A small meeting, 
I hear. I am in the house all day. 

25th. — Still very wintry this morning, with some snow falling. 
My stomach appears to be better; thanks be to the Lord. Esther 
Hadley very low. 

26th. — A fine morning. I am better. Several visitors called, 
among whom were Mary Charles, Abigail Symons, Dr. V. Kersey, 
C. Morgan and wife, Ann Lewis, Benjamin Thomas, and others. I 
rode out. 

27th. — Rain last night. Weather milder, but snow still over 
the earth. Monthly Meeting. Our daughter Miriam published 
intentions of marriage with Hugh W. Maxwell. William H. Ladd 
came at eight o'clock a. m. 

28th. — Cloudy this morning. Thanksgiving-day by proclama- 
tion of G-overnor Morton. 

29th. — Rain last night; dark and cloudy this morning. Gruli- 
elma Hiatt, wife of Eleazar Hiatt, died at seven o'clock this morn- 
ing, at Chester. 

Esther Hadley died at three o'clock p. M. 

30th. — A delightful clear morning. Thermometer nineteen de- 
grees. William and Caroline still with us. 

Tied ftli-month 1. — Cloudy, dark and some snow falling. Fune- 
ral of Esther Hadley at ten o'clock A. m. Funeral of Gulielma 



260 LIFE OF ELIJAH COFFIN. [1861. 

Hiatt at ten o'clock, at Chester. I hear that at Scripture school 
there were over ninety, and that a large meeting followed. 

Though unable to walk many steps unsupported, Elijah 
Coffin particularly desired to attend the, funeral of Esther 
Hadley ; assisted into his carriage by two persons, he went 
to the residence of Jeremiah Hadley, and after looking at 
the corpse, sat a few moments with the family in silent 
sitting. This was nearly, it not quite, the last effort to 
leave his own door. 

2d. — Our dear William H. Ladd, Caroline, Ellen, Charlie, and 
the baby James, all left us at eight o'clock a. m. for Cincinnati. 
A dark cloudy morning. Thermometer twelve degrees ; the cold- 
est of the season. I am taking more food, and enjoying it better. 

3d. — Third-day. — A fine day. Thermometer twelve degrees 
this morning; clear. 

4th. — A very fine morning. Thermometer eighteen degrees ; 
clear. 

5th. — Another fine morning. Thermometer twenty-three de- 
gress. I have eaten and enjoyed a fine breakfast. 

6th. — Milder. Thermometer forty-four; cloudy. Several Friends 
called to see me — Jabob Elliott, C. H. Moore, John Miles, John 
Newley. Select Quarterly Meeting. African Committee and Exe- 
cutive Bible Committee. 

7th. — Thermometer fifty degrees; cloudy. Joseph Cox and wife, 
Aaron White and wife, Sarah Smith, and Nathan Parker and 
Francis W. Thomas called. Education Committee at nine o'clock 
A. M., followed by the Quarterly Meeting. Had a good meeting, I 
hear. Our brother and sister, Mordecai and Rhoda, came in to see 
me. Very feeble this evening. 

8th. — First-day. — Cloudy. I enjoyed a | good breakfast this 
morning. Very feeble. One hundred and one scholars at Scrip- 
tural school, this A. M. A good meeting. Charles Reece's wife 
buried. 

9th. — Mild and cloudy. Thermometer fifty-eight degrees. I 
feel much feebleness to-day: but take more food. 

10th. — Delightfully clear this morning. Cooler. Thermometer 
twenty-six degrees. 



1861.] LIFE OP ELIJAH COFFIN. 261 

11th. — Delightfully clear this morning. Cooler, and thermome- 
ter twenty-six degrees. 

12th. — A very fine morning. Thermometer sixteen degrees. 
The army of the United States has been constantly increased, until 
it is now becoming very large about Washington, Fort Monroe, 
Missouri, and in Kentucky, with frequent skirmishes. 

13th. — Another fine morning. Thermometer eighteen degrees. 
Hannah Amelia White arrived. We were truly glad to receive 
her. 

14th. — AJdelightful clear'morning. Thermometer twenty-two de- 
grees. Charles is gone to Spiceland Quarterly Meeting at Walnut 
Eidge ; Joseph Dickinson to Northern Quarterly Meeting. 

15th. — First-day. — Beautifully clear this morning. Thermome- 
ter twenty-eight degrees, and pleasant. I have enjoyed a good 
breakfast, but am very feeble. I hear there were one hundred and 
thirty-one at Scripture school ; M. J. Fetcher in attendance. Meet- 
ing at Charles' well attended. I was much prostrated this evening. 

16th. — Another beautiful, delightful winter morning. Thermo- 
meter twenty degrees. Hannah Amelia left us at forty-five minutes 
past seven this morning. Her visit had been truly agreeable. 

17th. — Another beautiful morning. Thermometer twenty-four 
degrees. J. J. Kenworthy, wife and sister came in to see me. Our 
daughter, Mary C. Johnson, came in, most acceptably. I am very 
feeble. 

18th. — The weather continues most remarkably fine. Thermo- 
meter thirty degrees this morning. 

19th. — The weather still exceedingly lovely; a little hazy. 
Thermometer thirty degrees. Francis W. Thomas called. 

20th. — Cloudy, with some wind. Thermometer thirty-four de- 
gress. Mary C. Johnson left for home this morning. 

Up to this time Elijah Coffin had almost daily called for 
his pen and portfolio ; he had not entirely given up his 
mental toils for the welfare of others • he clung to it, " work- 
ing while it was day, and putting his house " thoroughly 
" in order." The following extract is made from the last 
letter written by his own hand, and addressed to his son, 



262 LAST ENTRIES. 

W. H. C, on the above date, which gives continued evidence 
of his declining strength : 

.... I take my pen again in a feeble hand to address a few lines to thee 

in love and remembrance I have become so very weak that I can not 

easily rise or walk without assistance. ... I can take sufficient food at my 
breakfast, but have neither appetite nor strength of digestion for much after 
that, until the next morning. The weather has continued most remarkably 
fine for the season, more so than usual. Thy mother is much afflicted with 
her old complaint and neuralgia, so as to disable her from much exertion. We 
feel ourselves in much affliction, but I trust are preserved from the spirit of 
murmuring, and are desirous of considering the many comforts, consolations 
and blessings which are permitted to us," . . . . 

21st. — Weather changed. Am very feeble — evidently weaker. 
Anthony Gaines, my nurse, came this evening at seven o'clock. 

22d. — Cold; snow last night; ground white. Thermometer 
twenty-eight degrees. I feel some better to-day. Over one hun- 
dred at Scripture school to-day. Sick ; with a dark vomit this 
evening. 

23d. — A cloudy, dark wintry morning, with snow. Our sister 
Mary L. Newby and Isaac Parker, came in to see us — most welcome. 
William Clawson and others called. Isaac Parker went home. 

24feh. — Third-day. — Weather still dark and cloudy, with snow 
on" the ground. Thermometer twenty degrees. 



This was the last note made by Elijah Coffin : 

" Ere long upon 
The bank of that dread river, deep and broad, 
He stood — while glorious visions greeted his sight." 

The time had now come when the language "Thou 
shalt die and not live," was applicable to him whose daily 
walks we have been tracing. His own hand was now 
staid, and through feebleness, refused to note even a short 
memoranda — the labor of his pen was sealed, to remain 
until the " book of remembrance " is opened, to tell the 
story of the good it accomplished. His last memorandum 



LAST ENTRIES. 263 

notes the advance of the chill temperature of winter — so 
were the chill blasts of death advancing upon him — but 
the unsetting Son of the world illuminated his path, and 
girded him with the "breast-plate of faith and love and the 
hope of salvation," and his calm spirit was not fluctuated 
at the evidences of approaching dissolution. 



264 LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 



CHAPTER XI. 

Last Days and Decease. 

Until within a few days of the last date, his strength 
had been sufficient for him early in the morning, to take a 
few steps from his bed to his easy chair, by clinging to 
something for support ; but after taking his morning meal 
(which rarely exceeded a tablespoonful of solid food), he 
soon became prostrate, and was subject to seasons of great 
weakness, attended with some pain, and took but little 
nourishment again for twenty-four hours. The disease 
preyed upon him in a succession of stages ; at each relapse 
sinking lower than the one before, and on rallying he did 
not again reach his former point of strength and vitality. 
Thus day after day he yielded ground " inch by inch/' 

For a time during his ill health, the nature of his disease 
was such, that combined with a naturally nervous tempera- 
ment, the imperfections of human nature were brought forth 
and rendered him wanting in power to keep in full subjec- 
tion the " natural shades " of his character. The enemy 
was suffered to lead him into the mountain of temptation, 
and buffet him with nervous irritability, which he occasion- 
ally manifested. He was frequent in offering " the fervent 
effectual prayer that availeth much ;" " get thee behind 
me Satan," was the language of his spirit. It is a recorded 
fact, that " they who seek shall find." This precious truth 
was touchingly verified in the experience of this dear in- 
valid. He who " was in all points tempted like as we are/' 
came " to succor ;" and the " infirmities of the flesh " were 






LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 265 

overcome, and the grace of God was conspicuously mani- 
fested. 

On the evening of the 24th of Twelfth-month, he sank 
very low, but rested pretty well during the night. The 
morning of the 25th, he was exceedingly prostrate. His 
physician came in at nine o'clock, and found him more 
feeble and wanting in vital energy, than he had ever been, 
and candidly told him that if his system could not be 
aroused, he could not continue long in that situation — 
probably not more than forty-eight hours. He received 
the information with perfect calmness, and, with heavenly 
sweetness said, " I know it to be so from my feelings." 
His great composure and presence of mind was beyond what 
those around him could command ; he immediately desired 
his eldest daughter to come to his bedside, and told her 
minutely where she would find the writing materials, and 
wished her to write and inform his absent children of his 
situation, remarking, " that they need not be taken by sur- 
prise." On further reflection, he concluded to have a tele- 
graph dispatch sent for his son William, who resided in 
Kansas, saying, " that the letter might be received by his 
family, in case his son had left home, on the summons of 
the telegram, before it reached its destination; and that it 
was his wish for him to come, whether he lived to see him 
or not, as he wished him for one of the executors of his 
estate." After giving these directions, he spent much of 
the day in conversation on various subjects, with one of his 
sons-in-law, giving frequent evidence that he was in the en- 
joyment of " that blessed hope, the glorious appearing of 
the great God." In the evening he bade a calm and most 
affectionate farewell to his sister M. N., who had been spend- 
ing a few days with him^ and could not remain longer from 
18 



266 LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 

homo ; he spoke to her of how much they had loved each 
other through life, and now in his last hours it was far from 
being diminished ; he then desired her to give his love to 
many of his friends, mentioning them by name. 

The general state of his mind, and great prevalence of 
peace, were the most marked features to be observed; his 
faith seemed ever present with him, sure, steadfast, immov- 
able ; " for it was founded upon a Rock." 

He rallied on the 26th, and by the time his three young- 
est daughters had arrived, the prospect of his immediate 
dissolution was removed. It was the first time that any of 
his children had ever returned to the parental nest without 
being met by him at the gate, and welcomed with his ac- 
customed tender, affectionate greeting and folded in his 
arms. Long after he was enfeebled by disease, he would 
totter forth to meet them, on their arrival for a short visit ; 
but this was forever past, and now they sought him within 
the walls of his own apartment, and there received his 
happy smile, finding him as perfectly natural and like him- 
self, as though this life was long before him. When his 
son and daughter, Wm. H. and C. E. L., came to him, he 
clasped his arms around them and said, " I wish to bless 
the good name of the Lord, who so abundantly blesses me ; 
I feel very comfortable and happy ; I can not say that I at 
all times feel this special favor, but I am very peaceful, and 
at times he grants me especial favors, and 1 feel His love 
to flow through my heart. 0, may we bless and magnify 
His holy name !" 

On the 30th, he dictated the following letter to his 
valued friend, Thomas Evans, of Philadelphia : 

• My Dear Friend, Thomas Evans : — I wish to offer thee an- 
other, and perhaps a last salutation of brotherly love, sympathy 



LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 267 

and remembrance ; being now entirely confined to my room, and 
unable to walk, yet am mercifully exempted from so great suffering 
as is frequently the lot of persons afflicted by illness. 

My decline downward appears to have been pretty steady ; and 
although I have been more comfortable for two or three days past, 
such is my reduced condition that my spirit might take its flight at 
any time. Through the great kindness and love of our God, I 
have felt generally peaceful, and am at times permitted to experi- 
ence the overflowings of love, and abounding of consolation in my 
heart. Blessed be his good name ! 

I endeavor to fasten my faith and hope on our own only Saviour, 
the Lord Jesus Christ, fully believing that all depends on him, and 
all of mercy, for " not by works of righteousness which we have 
done," etc 

Farewell, my dear friend. Write to me, if thou canst feel like 
doing so.* Salute for me thy dear wife and son [naming several 
friends], and any others who may inquire. Grace, mercy and peace 
from God our Father, be with thee and thine, and with our friends 
thereaway. 

Elijah Coffin. 

On the 1st of First-month 1862, the second marriage 
of his eldest daughter took place. It was an event to 
which Elijah Coffin had looked with great interest, and had 
desired that it might be accomplished before " his depart- 
ure." He insisted that it should not be deferred on ac- 
count of his declining state and apparently near approach 
to death, and wished that none of the family should remain 
with him during the time of the meeting. On the return 
of the married pair from the meeting, they repaired imme- 
diately to his chamber ; he gave them a cordial, glowing 
welcome, took them both in his arms and kissed them most 
affectionately, and said, " that he wished the choice bless- 
ings of Heaven might rest upon them — that they might 
spend a useful and happy life together — that his last 

* Thomas Evans was in very feeble health. 



268 LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 

earthly wish had been granted, in being permitted to see 
this day ; and now, if his son William (his only absent 
child) should come, it would be all he could ask." 

He had heretofore declined to have watchers with him 
at night, as he could take no medicines to be administered, 
and his wife and nurse not quitting his chamber either day 
or night, they gave him every needful attendance, resting 
between times. On the evening of the 1st, he said, that 
" in consideration of his weakness and uncertainty of life 
having become so great, he thought it was best to have 
some one to sit by his bedside," and named the friends 
whom he thought would be willing to aid in the service, 
wishing to divide the time in a way that no one person 
might be fatigued or exposed. His son C. F. C, watched 
with him first. During the night he was wakeful, and near 
midnight entered into a pleasant conversation ; gave direc- 
tions about his library, desiring " it preserved for the use 
and reference of his children and grandchildren during the 
life of his wife ; and at her death, to be divided among his 
children." He spoke of his labors in the cause of educa- 
tion, of Sabbath schools, the Bible and Tract Societies, etc., 
and alluded particularly to his labor in connection with 
Earlham College ; of his iC often going there through cold 
and heat, storm and rain, to lecture — to the committee 
meetings, etc., when he was weak and in poor health," as 
"having been prompted by his love for Christ"— that he 
" could not now in looking back, think of any other mo- 
tive that influenced him to do such labors ;" and now, says 
he, " in the retrospect they afford me unqualified satisfac- 
tion, but I do not feel that they afford any hope for sal- 
vation." His " only hope was through the precious blood 
cf Christ." He then spoke beautifully and fully of it, 



LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 



269 



saying " some object to set value by it — I" look for salva- 
tion by none other — prefigured by . the sacrifices of the law 
and by the whole old dispensation, it is not our business to 
inquire, why we are thus saved, but thankfully to accept 
the proffered boon in humility and confidence." 

He desired his son to deliver to the Sabbath school, of 
which he was superintendent, u an especial message of love 
to the officers, teachers and students, individually," adding, 
" that his long-continued interest in the cause of Scriptural 
instruction and Sabbath schools, was unabated to. the last ; 
and those with whom he was more immediately connected 
in these labors, he continued especially to love with ardent 
affection.' ' In speaking of the Meeting for Sufferings, of 
which he had been a member for thirty-three years, he said 
" his heart was nearly united in love to all its members, 
and he wished a message of it communicated to them ; also 
to the various committees with which he was connected, and 
to the officers and teachers of Earlham College." During 
the same night he said to his son, " If I could speak to the 
assembled multitude to do the last solemn rites for me at 
my funeral, I would proclaim to the utmost extent of my 
voice, ' Glory to God in the highest ! Praise the name of 
the Lord.' " 

His tenacity of life was so great that his days were pro- 
longed beyond what any who saw him could account for? 
and he was held to earth, until time w 7 ore away into a 
month. His spells of sinking and reviving continued, and 
it often appeared as though sunken human nature could 
endure no longer, and the " sorrowing band " were many 
times gathered to his bedside, to witness the lamp of life 
expire ; though he always spoke himself of having " no 
premonitions of the near approach of death. ,, 



270 LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 

He bore ample testimony to the value and efficacy of 
prayer, and to the fact, that God hears and answers the 
prayers of those who seek him ; speaking feelingly of the 
precious blood of Christ, as washing away all sin ; and it 
was very frequent that " his soul drew near to the Lord," 
in his rich daily experience of his Saviour's love. On one 
of these occasions he supplicated in a striking manner, for 
himself and his wife separately, and then for their children ; 
and during the greater part of one night, he poured forth 
a remarkable strain of thanksgiving and praise. 

Naturally possessing acute nervous sensibilities, his suf- 
ferings were at times severe, and therefore more keenly 
felt, than is the case with most persons ; but he bore them 
with a remarkable degree of patience, and without com- 
plaint. He was but an emaciated skeleton, and the distress 
arising from the fleshless condition of his body, appeared 
the cause of more suffering, than that which proceeded 
from the part more particularly affected. The nature of 
the disease previous to this, had at times subjected him to 
depression of spirits ; then, again, he would be quite cheer- 
ful, but as it is said of one, who some years before preceded 
him into eternity, "at no time could the chord of religion 
be touched, but it immediately vibrated." 

He often gave utterance to expressions of thankfulness, 
that he was not permitted to be troubled with doubts and 
fears ; his faith in the efficacy and all-sufficiency of the 
atoning blood of Christ never wavering, even amid the 
darkest scenes of suffering, and those who were privileged 
to attend him, were indeed witnesses that he was " kept by 
the power of God, through faith unto salvation." His 
mental capacities, instead of being weakened with the 
weakness of the body, seemed made the brighter as im- 



LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 271 

mortal glories opened to him, and he neared that rest, for 
which he each day gave such full evidences, he was so emi- 
nently fitted to enter. 

His son, Wm. H. C, arrived on the 3d of First-month. 
He was much overjoyed at seeing him, and clasping his arms 
about his neck, said, u Now my last prayer in reference to 
the things of this earth, is answered." After this he had 
no prayer in regard to the things of time, excepting for a 
u quiet and easy departure ;" thanksgiving and praise com- 
prising the greater part of what he said. The language 
was particularly applicable to him : " Lord, now lettest thou 
thy servant depart in peace." All his children were now 
gathered near him to catch the droppings from his dying 
lips, and administer to his comfort as best they could, and 
he very many times expressed the comfort it gave him, to 
have them with him, and spoke of it as " one of the Divine 
favors for which he felt thankful," and it was a privilege 
for which they can not be sufficiently grateful. 

His prostration continued to advance each day, and 
about two weeks before his close, he ceased to take any 
solid food ; his only subsistence being the nutriment derived 
irom an occasional spoonful of nourishing liquid. 

His mind beings delightfully quiet and peaceful, his indi- 
viduality was preserved to his latest hour, and his distin- 
guishing characteristics remained the same ; and whenever 
his prostration was not too great, he took an interest in 
whatever was going on both within and without. He re- 
called to mind the kindness of one who was once a faithful 
female servant in the household, and though she had not 
been in employ for nearly four years, he wished her sent 
for, and brought to his bedside, expressed to her his 
grateful remembrance of her services, and testified his re- 



272 LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 

gard by making her a present. He did not omit to avow 
his obligations to those then in service, in the same manner; 
nor did he ever receive from them the smallest attention, 
without a grateful expression and nod of the head. He 
had ample time to give directions concerning his domestic 
and common engagements, and made all his arrangements 
for departing, even to the minutest particulars, with the 
calmness of one preparing for a journey. He gave all his 
wishes concerning the care of his body after death ; named 
the friend he wished to assist his nurse in preparing it for 
burial ; gave directions as to how he should be clothed, etc. 
He was interested that a family lot might be secured in a piece 
of ground which was about being appropriated for cemetry 
purposes, and requested that his estate should be at a part 
of the expense ; and he often spoke of the neatness and 
order of the Moravian cemetry, which he had j visited in 
North Carolina, the year previous, of their manner of in- 
terment, and of the simple, plain tombstones, as a model 
which he Jesired to have followed when his demise should 
take place. These requests were complied with by his 
family as nearly as practicable. 

He often alluded to the various religious engagements in 
which he had taken an active part, and said, " they afforded 
him comfort in the retrospect, 1 ' and his interest continued 
as alive in the Bible, Tract, and other objects of a similar 
nature, as it had done when in health, and was unabated to 
the last ; he frequently inquired of the progress of these 
works, but in conversing upon these subjects, he repeated 
over and over again, that " it was not by works of right- 
eousness which he had done, but by the mercy of God, 
through Jesus Christ our Lord, that he looked for salva- 
tion." He spoke of " his love for Christ, constraining him 



LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 273 

to feel a continued interest in all labors which tended to 
promote his kingdom among men," saying, " if time to 
him should be but for an hour, he could not but feel just 
the same interest that he had done." He evinced this 
practically, by having subscriptions forwarded for the Mis- 
sionary Herald, and some other religious periodicals of the 
same character ; and when they came to hand, he desired 
them, with the Reports of Foreign Missions, read each day 
to him, that he might keep informed of the general spread 
of Christianity in different parts of the earth. 

At one time he said, that " in reviewing his past life, he 
felt that he had not at all times spoken for his Saviour 
when it would have been proper for him to have done so ; 
that in his self-examinations, he had often searched to see 
whether he was called to the ministry, but after carefully 
and prayerfully doing so, he had concluded years since. 
that his religious labors run in another channel, and that 
this had caused him to be too backward in speaking in 
public assemblies of his Saviour ; he wished all to do their 
duty in this respect, as he felt that he had suffered a loss 
for not more fully doing his." 

He did not feel in his retrospect of life that its pilgrim- 
age journey had been a " dreary waste," a " gloomy past ;" 
and that misery exceeds happiness here below ; he had 
been (i diligent in business, fervent in spirit, serving the 
Lord ;" and now as he turned back the pages of the past, 
he saw in its review that "goodness and mercy had followed 
him all the days of his life ;" and in reference to this he 
said many times, " This world is a beautiful one, and has 
been a joyous one to me, and I have no anxiety to leave 
it ; but feel ready at my Master's will, and have full faith 
that the transition will be to one of unspeakable glory." 



274 LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 

It was oftentimes very touching to witness the manifes- 
tations of love and sympathy of his numerous friends who 
visited him. There are sorrows which do not find utterance 
in words. The touching conduct of the friends of Job, is a 
beautiful illustration of this. Many came, who, like them, 
were so overcome at his altered appearance, and the un- 
mistakable evidences that weeks and days were no longer 
his, that they u wept " and " sat down with him, and spake 
not a word." The different members of his family will 
ever hold them in grateful remembrance. Once after his 
voice had grown so faint that he could not speak audibly, 
he whispered in the ear of one of his sons, " say to those 
in the room that my heart is full, and if my voice would 
admit of it, I could pray and utter praises aloud." Through- 
out his illness his heart overflowed with gratitude at the 
kindness of his friends, and it was affecting to observe his 
unwillingness that any should go away without being ad- 
mitted into his chamber, which was often the case, for dur- 
ing the last month, so numerous were the calls, and so 
slender was the " silver chord " of life, that it was impos- 
sible to gratify all with seeing him, without danger of pro- 
ducing serious results. 

We can not enter into a detailed account of all that he 
said ; there was much that we can not repeat. His short 
addresses and private counsels both to his family and 
friends, will not be lost in the memories of those who re- 
ceived them ; he many times expressed regrets that his 
bodily weakness was so great that it would not admit of 
more religious communion with them ; it was when dwell- 
ing upon this, that he gave the touching message to be 
delivered at his funeral. He would clasp his arms about 
the necks of those with whom he had been associated in 



LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 275 

religious and social circles, and in the sweetest manner give 
such parting salutations and affectionate leave-takings, 
kissing them repeatedly with child-like affection, that none 
present could restrain their tears. He almost daily said 
to his friends of all denominations, that " if they felt the 
spirit of prayer, he hoped they would not withhold," and 
almost as often, prayer flowed through his chamber. 

lie entertained a warm affection for Christians of other 
denominations, and as he had ever been ready to co-operate 
with them in the advancement of the Redeemer's kingdom, 
the feeling grew upon him to the last. Among his last 
utterances, he said: "I love all those who love the Lord 
Jesus Christ, because they love him." Many of the sweetest 
seasons of his social religious communion, during these last 
days, were with " his brethren " not in religious member- 
ship with himself. To one, whose association and affection- 
ate interest he very much prized, and who several times 
visited him, he spoke of " the constant and great peace he 
enjoyed ; that he knew not what was before him, and had 
no premonition of the time when he would be called to ex- 
change worlds ; but that his friends would some morning 
hear that he was gone ; that persons in his condition were 
frequently troubled with doubts and fears ; but this was 
not the case with him ; all was well ; he enjoyed a strong 
sweet peace, and confidence in God." The same visitor, 
in relating an account of one of his visits to Elijah Coffin, 
in company with a fellow church-member, says : " His lan- 
guage reminded me of that used by the Psalmist, when he 
said, ' when my mind was stayed upon the Lord, my soul 
was kept in perfect peace, because I trusted in him ;' that 
he seemed greatly to rejoice in the blessed hope of a glorious 
immortality, which he most fully believed in ; and this, 
said he, with strong emphasis, ( is not because of any merit 



276 LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 

of my own, not by works of righteousness that I have done,- 
but by faith in our Lord Jesus Christ ;' claiming to be 
saved by grace, through faith in the atonement, through 
the blood in Christ, ' in whom we have redemption, the 
forgiveness of sins,' and a blessed hope of everlasting life. 
While with him, he said to us, that if either of us felt like 
exercising in prayer or exhortation, it would be very ac- 
ceptable both to himself and his family. We knelt by his 
side, and while petitioning the Throne of Grace, he seemed 
fervently engaged, and taking hold of my hand, pressed it 
warmly, and at the close responded with a hearty amen ! 
I truly felt that his sick chamber was a most heavenly 
place, and that we did there indeed ' sit together in heav- 
enly places in Christ Jesus;' and, while engaging in prayer, 
that I realized 

' Heaven came down our souls to greet, ■ 
While glory crowned the mercy seat.' 

u On saying that I must leave him and go to our meet- 
ing (love feast), he spoke to me of his great love for all 
true followers of our Saviour ; how near to his heart were 
all such of every name, of the Christian fellowship and 
pleasure it had been to him to enjoy an acquaintance with 
many members of our church, and that he warmly greeted 
them as followers of one common Lord, and wished to be 
kindly remembered to them all on that occasion. In com- 
pliance with his request, I spoke in the meeting of my 
visit, stating that I had just left him, a dear friend, whom 
we all knew and loved, and was now nearing the gates of 
death ; that he who was yet among us, would perhaps, in 
a few hours, be treading the gold-paved streets, with the 
white-robed and sanctified above, and looking away from 
the ' valley of the shadow of death,' he warmly greeted 
them, and bid them God-speed." 



LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 277 

Near the close of the meeting, Rev. A. Eddy, the pre- 
siding elder, reverted to what had been said, and spoke of 
his personal intercourse with him, and called upon the 
meeting to notice "that when Elijah Coffin was taken 
away, a great shining light would be gone from our midst, 
and taken from the moral and spiritual world ; that they 
ought to be thankful that they had had that light for a 
season, and also how we should strive to profit thereby, 
and emulate his noble Christian example." 

After his decease, the same friend of the family says : 
"I am glad that it was for a short time my privilege to 
enjoy communion and Christian fellowship with your ex- 
cellent parent. I shall ever remember with grateful feelings 
his affectionate Christian kindness in all our intercourse ; 
'let me die the death of the righteous — let my last end be 
like his.' " 

One day, a dear Christian lady, on coming from his 
chamber, exclaimed : " What a glorious state he is in ! — 
all ready and standing on the banks of deliverance !" He 
had had some sweet conversation with her, but had* for- 
gotten, when she left his room, to make his usual request of 
her, which he asked of almost all who visited him, "to pray 
for him, that he might have a quiet and easy departure," 
and he sent a daughter hurriedly to overtake her, and re- 
quest her to remember him in her prayers to this effect. 

The occasion of this oft-repeated request, undoubtedly, 
arose from a strong natural fear of the dying struggle; for 
while "there was no doubt resting upon his future," he had 
the same timid shrinking from the final passage which is 
common to all human nature. It may be counted as an 
especial blessing that he had no premonition of the time 
when he would " take his flight," and that he was enabled 
cheerfully to "hope and quietly wait;" for when the con- 



278 LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 

flict came, he was most gently dealt with, and the King of 
Terrors was disarmed of his sting. 

One of the incidents of his last lingering days was his 
manifested love for singing. He had long been an ardent 
lover of hymns and religious poetry, and during the last 
year of his life this greatly increased; he would frequently 
repeat portions of such selections as he was particularly 
partial to, and for a few months before his decease, he 
almost daily requested his wife to read alternate verses 
from the Union Prayer Meeting Hymns, of such portions 
as he especially enjoyed. His sentiments in reference to 
singing were the same as held by the early members of the 
Society of Friends, and expressed by Robert Barclay, 
" that we confess it to be a part of God's worship, and very 
sweet and refreshing when it proceeds from a true sense of 
God's love in the heart ;" and as the close of his days 
drew nigh, and he was more fully prepared for another 
sphere, he many times requested his two youngest daugh- 
ters to sing to him — generally making the selection of 
hymns himself. On one occasion he asked them to sing 
the hymn 

" There is a fountain filled with blood." 

While they sang together, his uplifted countenance gave 
evidence that he felt the words to be particularly expressive 
of his feelings. At another time he was melted with ten- 
derness and emotion, when they had sung for him his favorite 
hymn : 

"How sweet the name of Jesus sounds 
In a believer's car! 
It soothes his sorrows, heals his wounds, 
And drives away his fear. 

" It makes the wounded spirit whole, 
And calms the tr<>u ! led breast; 
'Tis manna to the hungry soul, 
And to the weary, rest. 



LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 279 

" Dear name! the rock on which I build — 
My shield and hiding-place; 
My never-failing treasury, rilled 
With boundless stores of grace. 

" Weak is the effort of my heart, 
And cold my warmest thoughts; 
But when I see thee as thou art, 
I '11 praise thee as I ought. 

" Till then I would thy love proclaim 
With every fleeting breath; 
And may the music of thy name 
Refresh my soul in deaih." 

On Third-day afternoon, the 21st of First-month, be. 
tween five and six o'clock in the evening, he passed 
through two paroxysms of intense suffering, attended with 
acute pain and difficulty of breathing. After these had 
passed over, he continued for several hours in much physical 
anguish, unable to rest in any position, and he could not 
be changed without an increase of his distress, as the 
nervous sensibility of his now fleshless frame was extreme. 
For several days his stomach had been powerless to receive 
nourishment, and no alleviating medicines could be given 
to control the suffering. Through this trying dispensation 
there was not a melancholy utterance of impatience or com- 
plaint ; but, with his mind retaining its perfect vigor, he 
bore it, "waiting to be delivered." It was the great 
struggle between life and death — the dividing asunder of 
soul and body. On one of his sons repeating to him the 
text, " Though I walk through the valley and shadow of 
death, I will fear no evil, for thou art with me," he gave 
an expressive look, and responded by nodding his head. 
He frequently inquired whether it was thought he was 
dying, and said: "It would be a great comfort to him now 
to depart and be with Christ.'' He had, during his last 
week, frequently expressed this wish, and several times 



280 LAST DAYS AND DECEASE. 

asked his family, "If they could not unite with him in 
prayer, that he might be released." A medical attendant 
coming into his^room about eight o'clock in the evening, 
he inquired of him in reference of some external applica- 
tion for the relief of his agony, and asked him to sit by 
him until he died. 

At midnight it appeared as though his summons had 
come ; his extremities grew cold, and his breathing short 
and labored. He asked again if he were not dying, and 
being told by a friend who had remained with him, that he 
thought he would soon exchange this suffering tabernacle 
for one of those glorious mansions prepared by our Lord 
for those who love him, he replied : " 0, yes ! I know it, 
but there may be further suffering yet." Soon after this, 
his attendants were changing his position, when he at once 
remarked : " There, you have it. How delightful I feel ! 
So comfortable ! I have all the time believed there would 
be a season of rest for me between these terrible struggles 
and my final release, and now I am in it. Bless the good 
name of the Lord for it !" Placing his hand on the seat 
of acute pain, he said : " I do not feel that it is cured, but 
it is removed. I believe the pain of death will now be 
taken away, and that I shall depart quietly and easily." 
He did not appear to suffer after this, though he became 
restless toward morning, and about five o'clock A. M., on 
being asked if he was in pain, he answered : "Not in pain, 
but I feel very weak, and an uncomfortable sensation." He 
had entered the swelling tide of the dark river, and find- 
ing the everlasting arms and the sure rock underneath, 
and the "rod and the staff" of Him who once passed 
through, for his support, the sting of death was so far re- 
moved from hiin, that he could hardly distinguish himself 
that he was passing "over to the other side," and that the 



THE DECEASE. 281 

time of his departure had come. With a pleasant smile he 
looked up, not three hours before his close, and said : " I 
can not tell from my own feelings that I am dying ; I feel 
quite bright." 

He was perfectly rational, and calmly marked the pro- 
gress of dissolution going on within his frame, asking 
frequently of those around him, " How long they thought 
he would last." Thirty minutes before his close, he again 
inquired of his son-in-law how long he would probably live, 
saying : " I should be very glad to be released." Being 
told he thought it would not be long, he replied : " I love 
you all very much, and feel grateful to you for your kind- 
ness to me ;" and his testimony of affection and grateful- 
ness was closed upon earth forever. 

He afterward asked to be raised in a reclining position. 
Not ten minutes before his close, he gave one of his sons a 
bright look of recognition by his usual nod of the head — 
then there sat upon his countenance an expression of calm 
joy, and his breath grew .softer and fainter, until twenty 
minutes past eight a. m. it died away, without a sigh or a 
struggle. 

" How blest tlve righteous when he dies' 

When sinks a weary soul to rest, 
How mildly beam the closing eyes, 

How gently heaves the expiring breast!'* 

Not a contraction of a muscle indicated the slightest 
suffering— the victory was won over the last enemy — his 
prayers for a quiet and easy departure were mercifully 
answered ; setting another seal to the promise, * Whatsoever 
ye shall ask in my name, that will I do." Infinite Mercy 
presided over those solemn moments — the * promised Com- 
forter ' was there. 

"Well might the wail of earthly woe be hushed." 

18 



282 SWEKAL. 

6 Tears befit earth's partings f but the voice of .lamenta- 
tion was not heard, "amid the ' holy quiet ' which ' reigned 
around/ as his unfettered soul entered its eternal home of 
" unspeakable glory/' which had been its joy to anticipate, 
and to receive that which the Lord bath promised to them 
that love him— even the " crown of life." 

Thus 'he was gathered unto his people/ like Jacob of 
old, with his intellect bright, and in the bosom of his fam- 
ily. He had fallen asleep amid an earthly career of use- 
fulness and self-denying exertion, for the benefit of his fel- 
low-men. " Well done thou good and faithful servant, en- 
ter thou into the joy of thy Lord." 

The day for the funeral was fixed on Sixth-day morn- 
ing, the 24th of First-month, 1862. It was the first 
interment in a newly purchased cemetery, adjoining the 
grounds of Earlham College, and bearing its name. Says 
one : " It is most fitting that his last resting place should 
be so near the scenes in which he was wont to participate 
with such interest. That ' lone grave ' will receive many 
a pilgrim visit from teacher and student of Earlham." 

A citizen was requested to call upon the family and in- 
formed them that his death was felt as an afflictive public 
bereavement, and as a token of the estimation in which the 
departed was held, many citizens proposed that the places 
of business, in the streets through which the procession 
should pass, might be closed, should the proposition prove 
acceptable to them. It was most gratifying to receive so 
substantial a proof that he was thus revered by the inhab- 
itants of the town who knew him, and that they were ready 
to so honor the deceased ; but the surviving relatives not 
wishing for any unnecessary ostentation to be made in the 
manner of performing the last solemn service, did not ad- 
vise that a united action of the citizens should be taken j 






FUNERAL. 283 

but left them to act in the matter as they deemed best ; 
and many of the closed windows of the houses and shops 
in the line of the procession, gave memorable evidence of 
the affectionate esteem and high regard in which Elijah 
Coffin was held. 

The interment was attended by a great concourse of peo- 
ple from all parts of the county, in which he resided, of all 
classes, and almost every religious denomination. One of 
the public papers, in a notice of it, spoke of it as being 
the largest, but one, that ever had taken place in that 
city. 

Previous to the time for the funeral, the family, with a 
few particular friends, sat for an hour in private, around 
the precious remains. Several short addresses were made, 
which were touchiugly applicable to so sacred a moment ; 
then they took their last sad parting, 

" To'yield the precious gift 
to the silent grave." 

After which the remains were taken to Friends' meeting- 
house, and a Meeting for Religious Worship w T as held. 
When all were convened, and a perfound silence prevailed, 
his son Charles arose, and in a clear impressive manner 
transmitted the following message, which his beloved father 
had requested him to deliver on that occasion : 

"That he wished it communicated to the Church of 
which he was a member, to other personal friends and to a 
large number of acquaintances, that his heart overflowed 
with love to them ; that he would have rejoiced to have 
had some religious conversation with them, individually, 
during his illness ; but was unable, from extreme bodily 
weakness to see many of them, or to have all that religi- 
ous intercourse with them which he desired to have had — 



284 FUNERAL. 

that his heart was filled with love to them, and to his fel- 
low-men." C. F. C added, " on another occasion he 
said, if he could speak to the assembled multitude to do 
the last solemn rites for him at his funeral, he would pro- 
claim to the utmost extent of his voice, i Glory to God in 
the highest.' ' Praise the name of the Lord.' ' 

The ' clay tenement ' was then in the midst of the " as- 
sembled multitude," and when his dying message fell upon 
their ears, as though 'he being dead, yet speaketh,' it 
did not fail to produce a solemn impression. 

Several appropriate discourses were offered, and the re- 
mains were followed to the cemetery by a procession of about 
one hundred and twenty private carriages, accompanied by 
quite a number on horseback, and some on foot, who of 
their own accord assembled to pay the last tribute of affec- 
tionate respect to his memory. The students of Earlham 
College also walked to the spot. A short discourse and an 
impressive prayer were offered at the last resting-place, and 
the sad mourners dispersed. 

It is written, " Blessed are the dead which die in the 
Lord, that they may rest from their labors ; and their works 
do follow them." Christ also beautifully unfolded to us, on 
the illustrious occasion when he visited the " house of grief/' 
that they shall live again : " I am the resurrection and the 
life ; he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet 
shall he live." 



REMINISCENCE 

OF 

ELIJAH COFFIN. 



BY HIS SON CHARLES F. COFFIN. 



He being dead, yet speaketh.' 



My beloved father and myself were closely associated in life. 
In addition to the natural ties "which bound us together, I waa 
taken from school at an early age (when about thirteen), and 
brought up in business under his immediate care. I was his asso- 
ciate and companion, and was frequently called upon to render him 
assistance in carrying forward his various religious engagements. 
Perhaps no other person, except my dear mother, had better op- 
portunity thoroughly to know him. Of an open and confiding 
disposition, he had few secrets to which I had not access. I loved 
him with a deep and ardent affection. I venerate his memory, and 
feel a pleasure in preparing the following sketch for the benefit of 
his children and grandchildren. It may be that the effect of his 
example and good works will be felt to a later generation. In the 
preparation of this sketch, I have confined myself almost wholly to 
matters within my own recollection. Many things might be said 
of his early life, but of this his own short account must suffice. 
Of his last sickness and death — a period never to be forgotten by 
those who had the privilege of being with him — I have left the 
preparation of the account to that loved sister who prepared his 
Journal for the press. The following reminiscence is written with 
freedom and fullness, for the family ; much more so than it would 
have been if intended for niore/general circulation. I feel it to 
have been a blessing, and a privilege to have had such a father, and 
desire for 'myself, and for all his descendants, that we may emulate 
his example, and above all, be partakers of like precious faith, so 
that we too may be made meet to be partakers with the saints in 
glory. C. F. C 

Eleventh-month. 1862. 



REMINISCENCE OF MY FATHER. 



BY CHARLES F. COFFIN. 



My beloved father was an active, sprightly man, full six feet 
high, spare, and weighing about one hundred and fifty pounds ; 
very erect, neat in his personal habits and appearance, of nerv- 
ous temperament, and very active mind, full of original concep- 
tions, and apt to carry out what he undertook. With a health- 
ful, but delicate organization; easily overcome and made sick, 
unequal to great exposure, or to irregularity in food, sleep, etc. 
Of extreme cautiousness in all pecuniary enterprises, of very ex- 
act, methodical and careful habit, " having a place for everything, 
and keeping everything in its place;" of good mechanical taste, 
and skill sufficient to enable him to do a little job of repairing 
or improvement about the house, or to make almost any small 
needful article. Naturally of excitable temper, and easily pro- 
voked, which was much restrained by Divine grace, giving him a 
benignant and sweet expression of countenance, generally meeting 
you with a smile; affable and courteous; diligent in business and 
constant in his application to some useful object ; taking great delight 
in literary pursuits. These characteristics never failed him. His 
strength, until his final sickness, remained near the same. His 
hair had become somewhat gray, but his tall, erect, manly form 
continued to be quite marked, and his step active and elastic. 

His opportunities for early education were not good, but his in- 
domitable perseverance and great thirst for knowledge had enabled 
him to make amends for this. I have often heard him speak of study- 
ing grammar while plowing, leaving his book in the fence corners 
while he crossed the field and returned; and occupying every spare 
moment, morning, noon and night, in reading and study. By this 
means he acquired a good English education early in life, and was 
quite superior to most of those around him in literary acquire- 
ments. He commenced teaching school when arrived at the age 



REMINISCENCE. 287 

of about nineteen, and continued in that employment, with some 
intermissions, until several years after his marriage. 

My parents removed to Indiana in the Ninth-month, 1824. They 
sold their small farm in North Carolina, at a low price, and when 
they arrived in this State, had a horse, a small amount of household 
property, and about two hundred and fifty dollars in money. They 
first settled in a small cabin on the banks of the west fork of White- 
water, near where the canal mills, in the village of Milton, now 
stand. I have often heard them speak of the loneliness they felt 
in finding themselves strangers in a strange land ; all around them 
were new settlers, with but few of the comforts of life, which could 
not at the time be readily procured; and having to labor severely 
in clearing of the trees, opening farms, and preparing themselves 
homes. The first five months were spent in a log cabin about twenty 
feet square, with no window and but one door ; the only opportu- 
nity to read during the long winter evenings, being by the light of 
a large wood fire. It appeared to be a poor place for the cultiva- 
tion of education, intelligence and refinement. But the country 
was fertile and promising, emigration was setting rapidly in, many 
of the new settlers being members of our religious Society — kind- 
ness and hopitality prevailed. Of course, in such a chaotic con- 
dition of civil and religious society, an active-minded man like my 
dear father, found an ample field of labor, and was soon known as a 
useful and influential man, both in the public and in his own religi- 
ous Society. But there were hardships connected with the early 
settlement, to which his bodily strength was scarcely equal, and he 
was soon attacked with fever, which confined him to his house for 
six weeks. Lacking all the comforts requisite for a protracted case 
of sickness, feeble and emaciated, it is not surprising that he felt 
greatly discouraged, and often looked back with an anxious wish 
to his native land. But he had left that from conscientious mo- 
tives, and bravely meeting the troubles he encountered, he main- 
tained his position where he had selected a home. He purchased 
about forty acres of fertile land, erected a comfortable log dwelling 
thereon, and opened a school, in which many persons who are now 
past middle-age obtained their earliest education. He continued 
teaching until the year 1828 ; and there has always existed between 
him and his scholars of that period, many of whom are now the 



288 REMINISCENCE. 

most useful of citizens and members of our religious Society, a boncU 
of affection which nothing ever severed. 

As a teacher, he was thorough and efficient, quite in advance of 
most teachers around, him. He mingled freely with his scholars,, 
and joined in their sports, the liveliest of the lively; few could 
exceed him in the race, the game of ball, or other manly sports. 
He ruled by kindness; but maintained excellent order, and trained 
his scholars to unqualified obedience. The writer's first school- 
days were spent under my beloved father, and he still recollects the 
enthusiastic interest the teacher felt in all his scholars, and how 
earnestly he devoted himself to their improvement; how kind, 
loving and popular he was ; and how thoroughly he taught them 
in such branches as he undertook to teach. He often spoke of the 
time he spent in teaching as having been profitable to him. The 
occupation gave him a thoroughness in education, and a critical 
care in composition, penmanship, etc., which were, in after life, 
eminently useful to him. But, more than all, it gave him a knowl- 
edge of the wants of the young, and caused that fellow feeling and 
sympathy with them which, in after years, made every young 
person who approached him meet thaihearty welcome and cordial 
greeting which so much attached that class to him. 

To his experience during these years may also* be traced the 
earnest interest he always afterward took in the cause of education, 
both in the public and in his own religious Society. He was ever 
afterward a friend of a public system of education, and in his own 
Yearly Meeting few labored so long, so earnestly and so faithfully 
for "the guarded religious and literary education " of the children 
and young people. 

♦ About this period of his life, he served for a long time as clerk 
of the Monthly and Quarterly Meetings of which he was a mem- 
ber, and in other positions where he could be useful to the church. 
Love for Christ, although not so thoroughly developed as in after 
years, was even now the moving" cause in his life, and led him to 
earnest labor in the church, and otherwise for the advancement of 
His kingdom among men. That love for the Holy Scriptures, 
which led him in after years to do so much for their spread among 
men, was at this period made more apparent to those around him. 
He had them read daily and used as a class-book in his school 
when it was not generally practiced. The instruction received in 



'reminiscence. 289 

them in his school was blessed to many of his scholars, and he 
ever remained a warm advocate for their use in common schools. 
Among the earliest and most vivid recollections of the writer, 
are his father taking him upon his knees, and narrating, in a 
simple but truthful and impressive manner, Bible stories and inci- 
dents. While teaching others, he neglected not his own family, 
but commenced with their earliest years to instruct his children 
from the Holy Scriptures, and as soon as they were old enough, 
almost daily he required them to read portions of the Holy Scrip- 
tures, and answer questions upon them. He introduced, too, about 
this period (in the year 1828), the practice of daily reading a 
portion of the Holy Scriptures in his family, in a collective 
capacity-, with a devotional pause. It was a new practice among 
Friends in this country at that time, and, although recommended 
by the Yearly Meeting in 1827, it was looked upon with suspicion 
by some, and treated with ridicule by others ; but he " cared for 
none of these things,'' but persevered with earnestness in the prac- 
tice as long as he lived. He made it an invariable rule, that not 
only his own children, but all his household, including those in his 
employ, or temporarily sojourning with him, should be present on 
these occasions; and his children all look back to them as a marked 
feature in the family, and as having exerted a very useful influence. 
He often recurred to the labors of Thomas Shillito, at the Yearly 
Meeting in 1828, as having been blessed to him in strengthening 
his good resolutions, in this and other particulars, and leading him 
to do with earnestness what he conceived to be his religious duty? 
and to strengthen and confirm^a trait which had ever been promi- 
nent in his character of carrying out good designs, and putting 
into practical execution what seemed to him likely to be useful. 

In the year 1827, although then a young man, less than twenty- 
nine years of age, he was appointed^clerk of Indiana Yearly Meet- 
ing, a position he continued to fill for thirty-one years ; never dur- 
ing that time missing a single sitting of the Yearly Meeting. It 
was during a time of great commotion in the Society. The loose 
habits of the early settlers in the west, and their lack of education, 
led them to give but little attention to the Holy Scriptures ; to 
treat with great disregard the Sabbath day; and to many irreligious 
practices. Friends partook to a great extent of the spirit of thoso 
around them, and a disregard for religion and gradually practicaj 



290 REMINISCENCE. 

infidelity began to develop itself in the Society. With a light 
esteem for the Holy Scriptures there soon grew up a disregard for 
the Saviour, and a disbelief in his outward appearance among men. 
Unitarianism in its worst form, began to develop itself in the So- 
ciety. Some preachers boldly declared in their sermons that the 
outward blood shed upon Calvary was of no efficacy in the salva- 
tion of sinners, and many others showed a great lack of knowledge 
of the truths of the gospel. 

A fearful avalanche was gathering. So subtly did the enemy 
work that many goodly persons were drawn into his net. Under 
pretense of being taught by the Spirit only, the study of the Scrip- 
tures was discarded by many, and considered highly improper, as 
tending to fill the mind with ideas taught by man, instead of being 
enlighted by the Holy Spirit. My dear father's thorough study of 
the Holy Scriptures (a practice which he did not hesitate to urge 
by word and example), lead him readily to discover the heresy, and 
to see into what such views would lead. His voice and his pen 
were earnestly used against it. He labored much for the cause of 
his Lord and Saviour. His earnestness, and the prominent position 
he occupied in the church, made him an especial subject of attack. 
But he cast his care upon the Lord, and the Lord sustained him. 
He continued to maintain, with unflinching earnestness, the doc- 
trines of the gospel, as laid down in the Holy Scriptures, even when 
it led to the sundering of some very near personal ties. He expe- 
rienced then the truth that while on this earth the Christian is in 
the militant church, and must expect to endure perils by false 
brethern. He learned too that confiding trust in God which ever 
after marked his character, and rendered him fearless of what man 
could do, and made him so comforting an adviser to those who were 
in trouble. The firm stand taken by himself, and other Friends no 
doubt, under the blessing of God, saved Indiana Yearly Meeting 
from so fearful a separation as occurred in some other places. The 
small body who withdrew from it and established another Yearly 
Meeting at Waynesville, Ohio, in 1828, made but little impression 
upon the main body, so far as numbers were concerned. But there 
yet remained in the Society much of a libertine element, and many 
loose views which made further labor, and constant watchfulness 
and prayer necessary on the part of those who loved the Truth. 
The evil effects which had grown out of a neglect of these points 



REMINISCENCE. 291 

being so apparent, a more earnest interest grew up in the Yearly- 
Meeting, "for the guarded religious and literary education of the 
rising generation w,ithin its borders " (in which my dear father 
took an active interest), and also in the more general reading of the 
Holy Scriptures ; both of which subjects were very fully alluded 
to in the minutes of nearly every Yearly Meeting after this time, 
and have continued to occupy a considerable share of the time and 
attention of that body. 

In the year 1828, my dear father gave up the employment of 
teaching and embarked in the mercantile business, in a small way, 
in the village of Milton. In engaging in new business he felt the 
necessity for great watchfulness and care, lest he should by any im- 
prudent step bring dishonor upon the cause of Truth. He set out 
with the most scrupulous sense of the obligation of contracts, and 
with a determination to make no engagements which he could not 
promptly meet; to observe strict integrity and justice in his deal- 
ings ; and in every respect to do as he would be done by. How 
faithfully he carried out these religious duties, those with whom he 
had business intercourse will abundantly testify. Indeed, so suc- 
cessful was he that no one throughout his life, and through varied 
and extensive business, ventured to raise even a suspicion against 
his integrity. His whole course through life was conformable to 
the same rules ; and in after years, when engaged in more enlarged 
business, he never swerved from the principles upon which he first 
set out. Holding that we owe to God all our blessings, and that god- 
liness is profitable for all things, having the promise of the life that 
now is as well as that which is to come, he made it a rule of his 
life not to let his business interfere with his religious engagements, 
but to seek first the kingdom of God, with the full assurance that 
all things necessary would be added thereto. He often, in later 
life, bore testimony to the truthfulness of this position, and to the 
fact that God had abundantly fulfilled His promise, and added His 
blessing. He was favored with a good share of success in his busi- 
ness, and was soon able to enjoy much more of the comforts of life 
than he had previously done. Of warm domestic feelings and great 
attachment to his family, he did not permit his business cares to 
withdraw him from a proper association with and care over his 
children. He attended closely and personally to their literary as 
well as religious instruction, made himself their companion, and 



292 REMINISCENCE. 

partook of their little joys and sorrows, and at the same time re- 
quired unqualified obedience to his commands, so that they can not 
now look back and see any period of their life in which they lacked 
his watchful care and oversight. Notwithstanding a great accumu- 
lation of religious engagements he ever believed it to be his duty 
*o be diligent in business, and in whatever he was engaged to do it 
with his might; hence he gave strict attention to business, both 
when engaged for himself and when in the employ of others, and 
by his habits of system and order, by diligent application, and the 
concentration of his mind upon the point before it, he was able to 
accomplish much during his life. 

In the year 1828, he was appointed a member of the Meeting for 
Sufferings, and during the remainder of his life continued to feel 
a warm interest in that body, and to take an active part in its pro- 
ceedings, rarely ever missing a sitting of the meeting. He was 
warmly attached to its members individually, and during his last 
illness sent them a message of his continued love and interests 

His earnest interest in the guarded religious and literary educa- 
tion of the youth of his own religious Society, led him to advocate 
at an early date the establishment of a Boarding School, under the 
care of the Yearly Meeting. A proposition of this kind was for- 
warded from Whitewater Quarterly Meeting to the Yearly Meet- 
ing in 1832, and the committee to whom it was referred made a 
favorable report (which was signed by my dear father), in which 
they say, "we are united in the belief that the establishment of an 
institution, to be under the direction of the Yearly Meeting for the 
religious and guarded education of the youth of all classes of the 
Society, would have a happy effect on the state of Society in regard 

to education throughout our borders And while 

we desire not to press forward more speedily than our resources will 
admit, we think that the minds of Friends will become more and 
more prepared for it as our information advances, and means in- 
crease." 

It proved to be the work of years to build up in the Society a 
desire for such an institution. By slow degrees the labors of its 
friends were successful, and the buildings were, by great exertion, 
partly completed and first occupied in 1847— fifteen years after the 
first introduction of the subject into the Yearly Meeting. 
; My dear father was upon the first committee which had charge 



REMINISCENCE. 293 

of the school, and by his thorough business habits and educational 
experience, was able to render efficient aid in bringing about a sys- 
tem of order and discipline. He always retained his interest in the 
institution, and for the last three years of his life devoted much 
time and labor to it, often visiting it, mingling with the scholars at 
their exercises, and with the officers in their councils, cheering, 
supporting and encouraging them. He delivered a course of lec- 
tures on practical business points to the students which were highly 
appreciated. But his interest and labors were especially directed 
to the Scriptural instruction of the students, and he had much to 
do in bringing about the thorough attention to that branch of study 
which now characterizes Earlham College. His labors were tho- 
roughly appreciated by the faculty and superintendent, and they 
bear unqualified testimony to their great loss by his death. 

The following tribute* to his memory is taken from an address 
delivered by Zaccheus Test, M. D., one of the Professors in the 
College, soon after his death. 



* The hearts of many are already beating more warmly toward this 
place. A wide interest, we are glad to believe, is being kindled each suc- 
cessive session, in its objects and its prosperity; and the number is multiply- 
ing of those who are ready to bid an earnest " God speed " on its career. 
Would that our rejoicing at these accessions of new Friends were' not saddened 
by the thought that death is thinning the ranks of the veterans in the cause. 
In looking about us here to-day our eyes search in vain for one who, for years 
past, has been among the foremost and most interested with us on these occa- 
sions. Though his formal participation in the management of the institution 
had ceased, his interest in its prosperity and success continued warm and una- 
bated, and often still he would doubtless have lent us his presence and encour- 
agement. But the place that knew him shall now know him no more. 

The new year had not told many of its days, ere it summoned us to mourn 
at his open grave ; and it was a bitter grief that filled some of our hearts, as 
we thought that his kindly presence and sympathy would no longer, as they 
were wont, gladden and cheer us at our toil. Many doubtless feel with us 
that one of the truest and firmest friends of the institution has fallen, one who 
stood nobly and faithfully by it, alike through evil report and good report, and 
who allowed nothing to swerve him from his labors and interest in its hehalf. 
And many, no doubt, have been asking with us, Who is to fill the vacant place 
in the ranks of its friends? On whom has his mantle fallen? On whom rests 
the double portion of his spirit? 

It is most fitting that his last resting-place should be so near the scenes in which 
he was wont to participate with such a lively interest. That " lone grave " will 
receive many a pilgrim-visit from teacher and student of Earlham. Around 



294 REMINISCENCE. 

r During his residence at Milton, from the first establishment of 
the post-office there he held the position of post-master. 

He believed that good government is one of God's blessings to 
man ; that the powers that be are ordained of God, and that it is 
quite possible to carry on governments on Christian principles, and 
for those in authority to regulate their lives by a Christian standard ; 
and that living in a republic, every citizen is responsible to some ex- 
tent for the character of the government. Hence, he always be- 
lieved it his duty to exercise the right of suffrage, and promptly to 
pay all legally assessed taxes, often remarking that he felt it to be 
not only a duty but a privilege, thus to aid in supporting the govern- 
ment, and in every other respect, when it did not require something 
which he could not conscientiously perform. Nor did he constantly 
seek for some "conscientious objection," but was disposed to act 
with all the liberality the gospel allows, being careful at the same 
time to maintain a constience void of offense toward God and toward 
man. He was conservative in his political views, and careful to 
avoid the extremes of parties and to pursue a mild Christian course, 
taking no part in the excitement attendant upon political organiza- 
tions. 

The lack of Holy Scriptures among Friends in Indiana Yearly 
Meeting continued to be alarmingly great. The Yearly Meeting 
had taken .steps to have it inquired into, and in 1830, " The reports 
from the Quarterly Meetings showed a deficiency of one hundred 
and ninety -six copies of the Holy Scriptures, in order that each 
family may be supplied with one, and that all the deficiences are 
not reported.'' A large proportion of this destitution was in White- 
water Quarterly Meeting. The existence of such a state of things 

it are gathered memories and associations dear alike to both. And many an 
instructive lesson to our comfort and cheer will it have for us; for " though 
dead he yet speaketh," and in the luster of his example, and in the peaceful - 
ness and glorious hope of his death, we may see the beauty of a consecrated 
life and the blessedness of its reward. 

I feel that many words would not become me in this allusion. I have felt, 
indeed, that any were far short of my feelings, that I could scarcely let myself 
bring the matter to words at all. But I would fain give some expression, faint 
though it be, of what I so deeply feel, that Earlham Collage has lost a friend 
it could ill spare; and its officers an earnest and sympathizing adviser and co- 
worker, whose place can not easily be filled. One whose memory they will 
long cherish with the liveliest gratitude, and the most affectionate regard. 



REMINISCENCE. 295 

•was deeply affecting to my beloved father, and with his character- 
istic energy and determination, at Whitewater Quarterly Meeting 
on the Twelfth-month following, he procured the co-operation of 
some Friends, and they organized an auxiliary to the Bible Associa- 
tion of Friends in Philadelphia, for the purpose as set out in their 
constitution, " of supplying Friends and others in this vicinity with 
the Holy Scriptures, encouraging the frequent and serious perusal 
of them, and promoting a more accurate knowledge of their invalu- 
able contents." But thirteen Friends participated in the first meet- 
ing. My dear father was appointed secretary. The work went 
quietly forward, and commending itself more and more to Friends, 
many valuable members became participants in it. [At the Yearly 
Meeting in 1831, ninety-one families and parts of families were re- 
ported " as destitute of those invaluable writings," of which sixty- 
five were in Whitewater Quarterly Meeting. In 1832, forty-five in 
the Yearly Meeting and twenty-six in Whitewater Quarterly Meet- 
ing. In 1835, nineteen in the Yearly Meeting and three in White- 
water Quarterly Meeting], The meetings of the Auxiliary above 
named continued to be held, sometimes with very few present and 
under discouraging circumstances for nearly thirty years, until the 
organization was in great measure superseded by Indiana Bible 
Association of Friends; and many years before it ceased an active 
existence, every family of Friends within its limits was supplied 
with a good reference Bible, and every reader with a small Bible. 

In the Third-month 1832, " Charles Osborn, a minister of th® 
gospel, in unity with the Society of Friends, having obtained cer- 
tificates to perform a religious visit to Friends and others in Great 
Britain and Ireland, set off toward Philadelphia, with a view of 
sailing from that city across the Atlantic." My dear father, in a 
small memorandum book, says: " I having for sometime wished 
to visit the market of Philadelphia, in order to purchase merchan- 
dise, and having an agency for Indiana Yearly Meeting to provide 
Friends' books for the libraries, and wishing to attend Philadelphia 
Yearly Meeting in the Fourth-month next, and having this oppor- 
tunity of agreeable company, resolved to travel to the above-named 
city, with a view to attend to these several subjects. 7 ' This journey 
afforded him an opportunity of mingling with many valuable friends 
with whom he had long corresponded, and was useful to him in 
various respects. He kept accurate and interesting notes of it. 



296 

They are interesting to refer to, as an illustration of the change in the 
method of traveling between the same points in thirty years. They 
went by private conveyance to Hamilton, Ohio ; thence by canal- 
boat to Cincinnati j thence by steamboat to Wheeling, Virginia, 
occupying about four days between Cincinnati and Wheeling. 
From Wheeling they traveled by stage-coach to Fredericktown, 
Maryland, and from thence to Baltimore, sixty miles, upon one of 
the first railroads built in the United States. The cars were pro- 
pelled by horse power, and occupied about eight hours in the 
journey. He notes, " this was rapid and easy traveling.'' His 
memorandum gives an accurate description of the novel and 
interesting road and equipments, then just introduced. They 
arrived in Philadelphia on the 30th of the Third-month, having 
been sixteen days, including some short detention, in performing 
the journey. Steamships had not then been introduced, and his 
companion sailed from New York for Liverpool, in the packet-ship 
" Silas Richards,'' on the 7th of the Fourth-month. Afterward my 
dear father returned to Philadelphia, purchased his goods, and at- 
tended the Yearly Meeting. It was to him a very interesting occa- 
sion—Jonathan and Hannah Backhouse of England, Henry Hull of 
New York, Jeremiah Hubbard of North Carolina, and Ann Taylor 
of Ohio, were among the ministers from other Yearly Meetings in 
attendance. He says, " this Yearly Meeting has been conducted in a 
very harmonious and satisfactory manner,'' and " its close took place 
in a solemn and memorable manner.'' He visited Westtown board- 
ing-school after the Yearly Meeting, and speaks of it " as in very 
successful operation," and " being in a very thriving and prosperous 
condition." After spending a few days more in Philadelphia, visit- 
ing various public institutions and other objects of interest, and 
mingling with his friends and forming acquaintance and attachment 
with some valued friends, which was kept up as long as he lived, 
he set out for home, and returning by stage-coach through Penn- 
sylvania to Pittsburg, and by the Ohio river to Cincinnati, he 
reached his own home at Milton, on the 9th of the Fifth-month 
1832, and notes in his memorandum-book, " much pleased to meet 
my family and friends after a very interesting journey, and feeling 
thankful to a good Providence for the favors which had attended 
me." The writer well remembers the interest with which he nar- 
rated to his family on his return the various events which had oc- 



REMINISCENCE. 297 

eurred to him during his absence, and the thankfulness with which 
he spoke of the preserving care of Divine Providence toward him 
and his beloved family during their separation. This was another 
marked feature in his character. In later years he was often called 
from home, but never set out without earnest prayer for preserva- 
tion, and always returned home with thanksgiving for his safety ; 
thus abundantly realizing a sense of his dependence upon Divine 
Providence for all his sure mercies. 

His business being prudently and carefully managed, continued 
to prosper in a small way ; but his capital was small, and his great 
antipathy to being in debt, led him to accept a proposition which 
was made to him by a wholesale dry goods firm in Cincinnati, with 
which he had for several years dealt, and who were well acquainted 
with his careful business habits, to take charge of their books 
with a prospect of larger interest in their business if mutually 
agreeable. He felt keenly breaking off the connection which had 
so long and so pleasantly existed with his friends at Milton, but 
after serious deliberation, he thought it best to make the change ; 
and closing his business satisfactorily, he left there with his family, 
in the Seventh-month 1832, and arrived at Cincinnati, on the 4th. 
The change to city life for one always accustomed to the country, 
was great, but ho entered upon the duties incident to his new situa- 
tion, with his accustomed energy and zeal, and soon made himself 
efficient in the business, and gained the esteem of his employers, 
and of those who dealt with them. His interest in religious sub- 
jects continued unabated, and he soon commenced a Scripture 
school on First-day, in Friends' meeting-house, one of the first in 
tlie Society in the west. It was kept up during his stay in the 
city, and was well attended. The experiment worked satisfactorily^ 
During his residence in Cincinnati, Jonathan and Hannah C. Back- 
house visited that city. Their earnest and effectual labors in the 
cause of Scriptural instruction, met with a ready response with my 
dear father, being in accordance with his own views and practices ; 
and he often spoke of the strength and encouragement this had 
afforded him. 

About the time of his arrival in Cincinnati, the second visitation 

of cholera was prevailing there. It was very fatal. Much alarm 

was felt, and a deep gloom spread over the city. The writer well 

remembers the calmness of his father ; while using all proper pre- 

19 



298 KEMINISCENCE. 

cautions, lie remained quietly at his post, and attended regularly to 
his daily duties, trusting in God. Business prospered and increased 
in the house with which he was connected. The prospect of speedily 
making a fortune was before him. But the increasing business re- 
quired so large a share of his time, and so fully occupied his mind, 
as to cut him off from the opportunity to devote himself to religious 
objects so much as he desired. This, together with the impression 
that his family eould be more readily trained to a religious life in 
the country, caused him to accept a position which was tendered 
him in the fall of 1834, as cashier of the Branch of the State Bank 
of Indiana at Kichmond, a new institution which was about com- 
mencing business. This led him to return to the State and county 
from whence he had removed, and brought him to the place where 
the Yearly Meeting was held. This movement, too, was not made 
without deep thoughtfulness and prayer ; and, although it led to a 
sacrifice of prospects of greater gain, he ever felt that the hand of 
Divine Providence was in the opening thus presented for a change 
of business, and that it resulted in good to himself and his family. 
He was again thrown into an untried business, and again had to 
carve out his way. His associate officers were also novices in the 
business, and upon him fell the principal management of the bank. 
He brought to it his usual correct business habits, and an earnest 
application and unbending integrity, which insured success. For 
several years he remained almost the sole manager of the branch 
at Richmond, and also represented that branch in the board of 
directors of the State Bank, and to him largely the public are 
indebted for the high standard attained by that branch of the old 
State Bank of Indiana, and the creditable manner in which it was 
conducted. He opened the doors at the commencement of the bank 
on the 1st of the Twelfth-month, 1834, and continued to fill this 
position until its final close, on the 1st of the First-month, 1859, 
a period of nearly twenty-five years. Most of his early associates, 
both in the branch bank with which he was connected, and in the 
parent institution and its other branches, had passed off the stage 
before he retired, but with all who survive him he is held in kind 
remembrance, and greatly respected for his candor, integrity, and 
business habits. 

"A lover of hospitality, a lover of good men," his house was 
ever open to receive tho&e who were traveling in the service of their 



REMINISCENCE. 299 

Lord or of the church ; and uniform testimony has been borne by 
these to the kindness, hospitality, and Christian spirit with which 
they were received and entertained. Most of the ministers of the 
gospel from England, who visited Richmond after he removed 
there, were his guests, and warm attachment was formed between 
them, and his correspondence with some of them, which was kept 
up until his death, was very interesting. The acquaintance thus 
formed, together with his position and influence in his own Yearly 
Meeting, caused his name to be familiar throughout the Society of 
Friends, so that wherever Indiana Yearly Meeting was known, his 
name was attached to it. The visit of Joseph John Gurney, in 
1837, was a memorable one to my father and his family. He is 
still remembered by those who survive for his sweet Christian 
spirit, his abounding prayer and thanksgiving, and for his feeling 
appreciation of the condition of those among whom he mingled 
and his tender advice, counsel and warning/ He notes his arrival 
in his journal, under date of Tenth-month 2, 1837, thus briefly 
and pleasantly : " We arrived at the peaceful abode of dear Elijah 
Coffin on Sixth-day, in time to 'attend the afternoon Meeting for 
Suffering." 

About this period, one of those circumstances occurred which 
showed the advantage a thorough knowledge of the Holy Scriptures 
had upon the mind of my dear father. Some Friends were dis- 
posed to give a theoretical interpretation to the doctrine of the 
resurrection of the dead and general day of judgment, and to 
spiritualize away the plain teachings of the Holy Scriptures on this 
subject; and these views had so far prevailed in one Monthly Meet- 
ing in the Quarterly Meeting to which he belonged, as to lead to 
serious difficulty and disagreement. My dear father was one of a 
committee appointed by the Quarterly Meeting to visit them, and 
by his rigid adherence to the Holy Scriptures, neither going beyond 
nor stopping short of the views therein laid down on these points, was 
able to do much toward allaying the excitement. The Monthly 
Meeting was temporarily suspended, but the occurrence was useful 
in leading many to a more thorough search of the Holy Scriptures 
and examination of the foundation of their belief. 

My dear father had, from early life, been a decided anti-slavery 
man, and while a resident of North Carolina, was connected with 
an emancipation society. His great aversion to slavery was a prin- 



300 REMINISCENCE. 

cipal cause for his leaving that State, as he preferred to have his 
children brought up in a free State. He always maintained, con- 
sistently and decidedly, his opposition to slavery ; and when the 
legislature of Indiana passed laws discriminating against colored 
people, he was one of a deputation from the Meeting for Sufferings 
who visited Indianapolis, in the winter of 1830, to urge their re- 
peal, and the granting that class of citizens equal rights with others. 
He labored much during his life for the advancement of the colored 
people in education and Christianity, and was a firm and reliable 
friend to the race. He was, however, by natural temperament and 
through Divine grace, conservative and careful about running to 
extremes, and his well-balanced mind soon detected any tendency 
in that direction. When the anti-slavery excitement which spread 
over the Northern States had begun to agitate his own religious 
Society, he feared the tendency to extremes which it developed. 
He thought, too, that the zeal and heat which was manifested was 
calculated to injure rather than promote the cause ; hence, while 
his views on the subject of slavery and the rights of the colored 
people remained unchanged, he stood firmly against the spirit 
which was being developed in the Society, and which finally re- 
sulted in the withdrawal of a considerable number of the members 
of Indiana Yearly Meeting, and the establishment, in the Second- 
month, 1843, of the Indiana Yearly Meeting of Anti-slavery 
Friends. He felt keenly this step, as it cut him off from religious 
association with many to whom he was closely attached, and with 
whom he had long labored in the good cause. In this, as in many 
other differences in religious Society, much ill-feeling was stirred 
up, and no doubt a want of sufficient forbearance was shown by 
their brethren toward those who were honestly and conscientiously 
laboring in what they thought a right cause. Time wore off the 
difference to a great extent, and subsequently far the greater number 
of those who left the Society on that occasion were restored to it. 

My dear father ever felt a deep interest in the civilization and 
spread of Christianity among the heathen nations, and a warm re- 
gard for the devoted missionaries who sacrificed so much of per- 
sonal comfort and enjoyment as to spend their lives in this good 
cause. He rendered them such aid, pecuniarily and otherwise, as 
he was able to, and as he could consistently with his views of the 
freedom and spirituality of the gospel dispensation. His interest 



REMINISCENCE. 301 

in this cause continued unabated to the end of his life, and he sub- 
scribed during his last illness for the " Missionary Herald," in 
order to keep himself fully advised upon the subject. He looked 
upon the colony of Liberia as likely to have a useful influence in 
the spread of civilization and Christianity in Africa, and hence 
gave it his hearty support. 

In the year 1846, my dear father was appointed an Elder. His 
thorough knowledge of the Holy Scriptures, and religious weight 
of character, rendered him well qualified for that position; and with 
him it was not merely a nominal office to which he had attained 
from negative qualities, and on account of plain dress and a con- 
sistent outward appearance, and because no especial objection could 
be urged to him. He had very clear views of gospel ministry, and 
dealt tenderly, but decidedly, with the ministry: advised, encour- 
aged or warned them as occasioned required. He labored faith- 
fully to feed the flock over which he was overseer, and did not con- 
fine his labors to finding fault with the unwary, and with those 
who had gone astray. Many young Christians remember, -with 
affectionate interest, his kind and sympathetic advice, and his words 
of counsel and encouragement. In Meetings of Discipline he was 
especially useful, his clear, sound and well expressed views having 
great weight with his Friends. His labors for the advancement of 
every good cause were earnest and indefatigable, his habits of sys- 
tem and order being eminently useful in the practical affairs of the 
church. A few times in his life he spoke in Meetings for Worship 
in a forcible and striking manner — but it was very rarely. He re- 
marked, a short time before his death, that he had often in years 
past examined carefully, and believed that he was not called to the 
gospel ministry, but to labor in other parts of the Heavenly Father's 
vineyard, and that fact had made him too cautious about publicly 
speaking for his Saviour, and he now believed that it would have 
been right for him more frequently to have'shown by outward expres- 
sion his love for his Saviour. He was several times during his life 
engaged in visiting families and individuals to encourge them in a 
religious life. In the year 1850, my dear mother and himself at- 
tended Walnut Ridge Monthly Meeting, and visited twelve to four- 
teen families, and several individuals, mostly among his relations* 
His labors among them were interesting, and attended with useful 
results. On another occasion, in company with two other Friends, 



302 REMINISCENCE. 

he visited a large number of families of newly married persons, and 
single young men in the limits of his own Monthly Meeting. This 
service yielded himself and his associates peace of mind, and was 
acknowledged by many of those whom they visited to have been 
useful to them. He continued to feel a deep interest in this class 
of society as long as he lived, and the singularly touching and beau- 
tiful remarks he made in the last Yearly Meeting he attended, after 
he was unable to sit long at a time, will not soon be forgotten by 
those who heard them. 

At the close of the charter of the State Bank on First day of 
1859, my dear father gave up secular business, but he was too active 
a man, and had too high an estimate of the value of time, to spend 
it in idleness. He had seen too frequently the evil results of mem- 
bers of our own religious Society, even in'advanced years, when not 
forced by physical inability to do so, giving up all employment and 
spending their time in listless idleness ; he often remarked that 
such were sure to fall into temptation, and to be the instruments of 
others, if not themselves the active participants in evil. His time 
after this was almost wholly taken up with such objects as he 
thought would promote the glory of our Heavenly Father. In 
the various engagements connected with his own religious Society; 
the Bible Society; the Central Book and Tract Committee ; the 
committee having charge of Earlham College, much of his time 
was occupied, as will more fully appear in his journal. The pre- 
paration and publication of his " Scripture Exercises," also cost 
him much time and labor : so that altogether in no part of his life 
had he been more closely engaged. All these were objects in 
which he felt a great interest, and he spoke of them on his death- 
bed as affording him unqualified satisfaction in the retrospect, " be- 
cause he did them from his love to Christ." During this period he 
spent some time in visiting the families in the ward of the city in 
which he lived, during the winter season, to inquire into their out- 
ward wants and to supply the destitute with Bibles and Tracts. A 
similar service was performed in a suburb of the city, which led? 
through his exertion principally, to the estalishment of a "Sabbath 
School," which has since been in successful operation, and has been 
productive of good fruits. He is borne in affectionate remem- 
brance by many of those who were thus visited, and since his 
death, touching tributes have been borne to his memory by some 






REMINISCENCE. 303 

of these poor and neglected ones. His kind and Christian manner 
secured for him a favorable reception wherever he went, and his 
loving spirit left its impress on those he visited. During his whole 
life he had a warm attachment for the branch of the Christian 
church to which he belonged. Connected with Friends by birth 
and education, his views of the accordancy of their principles with 
the doctrines of the gospel as laid down in the Holy Scriptures, 
became stronger and more decided the longer he lived, and the more 
he grew in spiritual knowledge. His life too had been much devoted 
to the service of the church and to the spread of a vital experimental 
Christianity and a loving spirit among its members. Under ap- 
pointment of the Superior Meeting, he frequently took long jour- 
neys to visit the churches, and expended much of his time and 
means in such services, and few persons have been similarly en- 
gaged to more profit. He left a memento behind him wherever he 
went, and many endearing associations were thus formed. Within 
the last two years of his life, as will more fully appear in his 
journal, he thus visited Iowa and Kansas, beside attending North 
Carolina, New York and New England Yearly Meetings. He was 
himself a strict observer of the peculiarities of the Society in dress 
and language, and brought up his children in conformity to them, 
but as he grew older he put less stress on these minor points, and 
felt more earnest interest in repentance, conversion, change of heart 
and life, and thorough submission to the operation of Divine grace 
in the heart, than in outward conformity to the rules of the Society. 
He feared that many relied too much upon these minor points and 
neglected the weightier matters of the law. He often remarked 
that if we made clean the inside of the cup and platter, the out- 
side would be clean also. He was especially concerned in the lat- 
ter part of his life and during his final illness, that those in more 
advanced years, and occupying prominent stations in the church, 
might thoroughly examine themselves, to know whether they 
had passed from death unto life, and his kind, feeling conversations 
with some of this class were peculiarly touching and interesting. 

While entertaining these views and feelings in regard to his own 
religious Society, he had the most extended charity and love for 
those of other Christian denominations. Ha mingled freely with 
all such in promotion of the great objects of life, and was ever 
ready to participate with them in any movement which he consid- 



304 REMINISCENCE, 

ered to be for the good of his fellow-men. He frequently visited 
and addressed their Sabbath Schools, Bible Societies and other 
useful associations— and encouraged the establishment of schools 
for the instruction in the Holy Scriptures of those who were' neg- 
lected, especially where denominational schools could not be. easily 
maintained. While maintaining thoroughly what he believed to be 
the true Christian doctrine as to the freedom and spirituality of 
the gospel ministry and the necessity for Divine aid in the 
exercise thereof and in prayer, he was careful not to judge 
harshly those who differed from him, nor to discourage exer- 
cises of that kind which they believed to be right. During his 
last sickness- he received with much comfort the visits of ministers 
and others, members of other churches, and some seasons of prayer 
on such occasions were deeply affecting to himself and his family. 
His feelings were simply and beautifully expressed, on one occasion 
during his final sickness, to one of this class : " While I love my 
church and brethern, with an ardor indescribable, I love you all — 
I love all you who love the Lord Jesus Christ, because they love 
Him." My dear father was always careful in speaking, of his own 
personal religious experience. With an abounding sense of his 
own infirmities- and his unworthiness, he felt that to the mercy of 
God he owed all. that he was, and he was fearful almost to a fault, ia 
laying claim to be a servant of Christ, and in speaking of his own ad- 
vance in Christian life. But his life was to those who were most inti- 
mately acquainted with him a beautiful exemplication of the gradual 
work of sanctification, and of that path of the just which shines more 
and more unto tke perfect day. His heart had, at an early period 
in his life, been given to Grod:. he had experienced conversion, and 
showed by his after life and conversation that his great object was 
to serve the Lord, benefit his fellow-men, and attain finally to one 
of those mansions prepared in Heaven for those who love the Lord 
Jesus Christ. In the year 18-44, he passed through one of those 
seasons of deep mental agony which sometimes overtake the 
Christian, and are intended for his further purification and refine- 
ment. His soul was poured out repeatedly in strong cries and 
prayers to Glod — daily and often during the day much time was 
spent in retirement and prayer — finally faith obtained the victory, 
and he came out further advanced in the pathway of Holiness — 
the face of his Heavenly Father again shone upon him, and His 



REMINISCENCE. §05 

spirit spake peace to his soul. It was a well-marked era in his life, 
and made a strong impression upon his family as well as himself. 

It is not professed that he was clear of faults. He was- naturally 
of an irritable, nervous temperament, and had a strong will to sub- 
due — but he labored earnestly and faithfully to this end. Nor did 
he permit a sense of his own weakness to prevent his labors for the 
good of others. He felt keenly the wickedness by nature of his 
own heart, and his constant liability to fall into temptation, and the 
necessity for watchfulness and prayer. With a clear, strong mind 
he readily grasped any proposition, and frequently when he clearly 
saw the expediency of any measures which he thought for the good 
of the church or the world, it was difficult for him to have sufficient 
patience with those who differed from him, and he sometimes pressed 
his points with such earnestness as to give him the appearance of 
overbearing. He was ever ready both publicly and privately to 
confess his faults, and frequently poured outliis soul in prayer for 
forgiveness of sins, and strength to overcome the evil of his nature ; 
for this he relied solely on that fount which is opened for sin and 
for uncleanness — the precious blood of Christ. With a keen sense 
of honor and justice he was ever ready to make amends to any 
whose feelings he had wounded, or explanation to those who felt 
themselves aggrieved. Thus he passed through life with fear and 
trembling, still growing, in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord 
and Saviour Jesus Christ. It was interesting and instructive to those 
who were associated with him, to note the progressive development 
of his religious experience,, and his continued steady progress in the 
highway to holiness. 

A person of such a temparament, and. of so earnest) a character, 
will necessarily encounter opposition; and he was not exempt from 
enemies. There *were those, even in his own church., who either 
from jealousy, or other fruits of an evil heart, opposed his schemes 
Sot good, and took pleasure in annoying him. Toward such he en- 
deavored to cultivate a Christian spirit, and to forgive and love 
them, and when he was reviled to revile not again; at the same time 
exercising a stern care not to waver in the path of duty on account 
of opposition — nor to permit himself to be drawn into compromises 
which required a sacrifice of duty. In this respect he was quite 
remarkable, pursuing with firmness the path of duty, ever bearing 
in mind that he that will live godly must suffer persecution, and 



306 REMINISCENCE. 

that the servant of a crucified Lord must expect to be reviled and 
opposed. He often spoke of this as the militant church, and looked 
forward with earnest aspirations to that better land where all is 
peace, love and joy. He was especially guarded in reference to 
tale bearing, and circulating reports unfavorable to others, or 
speaking of their faults. Few persons have through life come 
more nearly up to the Christian standard in this respect. If any- 
thing reached him unfavorable to another, which he considered 
worthy of notice at all, it was his habit to go to the accused party and 
speak to him in the spirit of restoring love. It was rarely, however, 
that he gave heed to mere floating rumors or reports, prejudicial to 
others, looking upon all such things as the offspring of the evil one, 
and leading into loss to the Christian, who either circulated them 
or nourished the spirit by listening to them. 

Such was the life my honored father led: an active, devoted, 
earnest, Christian man, who carried out into practial every-day 
affairs the principles of the religion he professed. "While he was not 
without many of the frailties incident to this life — no one was so con- 
scious of them as he was himself. He was a man of prayer, spend- 
ing a part of each day, for many years, in religious devotion. Some 
instances of prayer in his family, and on more public occasions, are 
still feelingly borne in mind by survivors. The Bible was his great 
book. His knowledge of its contents was very thorough — his quo- 
tations correct, and he cultivated a reverent belief, rather than a 
curious and doubting study of its contents. Christian virtues shone 
out with greater clearness in his latter days — and for the last few 
months of his life he seemed to those around him as one ripe for 
eternity. Of his death, the beautiful description of that of another 
devoted Christian who passed from works to rewards, near the same 
time, is striking applicable to him. 

" His lovely, noble life closed with a worthy death. All the piety, the 
Christian humility and simplicity which, through many years had illuminated 
the community he dwelt among, were trebly evinced in the manner of his de- 
parture. Full of faith, delight in his Saviour, kindness for all he parted from* 
yet joy and triumph, in his destiny, humbly regarding himself as nothing — 
nothing — only a poor sinner, saved by grace, patient in the midst of dreadful 
and prolonged suffering, speaking only of God's goodness in sustaining him in 
the dark valley — a valley whose darkness had been his terror, but which he 
found all alight with God's mercy — his death was a scene which none can ap- 



REMINISCENCE. 307 

predate who did not witness it, and which they who did can not adequately 
describe."^ 

It has been touching to his family to see the many tributes •which 
have been borne to his merits, and the evidence received from vari- 
ous sources of the hold he had on many hearts. " Let me die the 
death of the righteous, and let my last end be like bis."' 



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